01/06/2026
The recent announcement that the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) -funded students in South Africa will no longer be placed in privately owned accommodation graded D and E from 2027 onwards is an important wake-up call for the student accommodation sector.
At the same time, recent media reports and student protests regarding unsafe and poorly maintained accommodation remind us that student housing is not just about beds — it is about dignity, safety, wellbeing, and a conducive learning environment.
As accommodation providers, we all have a responsibility to ensure that our properties do not contribute to the frustrations that often lead to protest action, especially at the beginning of academic years.
From what I have observed as a NSFAS private student accommodation panelist, many grading challenges are not always major structural issues. In many cases, they relate to:
• Maintenance and upkeep
• Safety and security measures
• Room sizes and ventilation
• Communal spaces
• Compliance documentation
• General property management standards
The good news is that there is still time for property owners to assess their current grading status, identify gaps, and prepare for regrading before the end of 2026.
The sector cannot afford complacency. Beyond compliance, improving standards protects students, strengthens the reputation of private accommodation providers, and supports stability within our institutions of higher learning.
Let us commit to doing better for our youth. If you are not sure where to start, seek advice from those in the know, get a pre-assessment evaluation to save you time and frustration.
Liyema IKhaya Consulting Dez Sikakane
