Ongwediva Town Council is finalising the process of availing serviced land for the development of student accommodation, in response to the growing housing challenges faced by students in the town. 

Following a recent field visit to areas where students reside, Ongwediva mayor Naemi Amuthenu expressed dissatisfaction with the conditions under which many students live. 

“What we saw on the ground is deeply concerning. Students are living in overcrowded rooms, shacks, and unsafe areas, while others are forced to walk long distances to attend classes because they cannot afford accommodation closer to their institutions,” Amuthenu said. 

She added that some students are forced to stay with family members or acquaintances where they are not always treated fairly. 

Meanwhile others live in informal settlements under squalor conditions that put their safety at risk. 

“Students are here to study and better their lives. As a town council, we have a responsibility to ensure that they are not exposed to unsafe and undignified living conditions,” she said. 

Ongwediva is one of the northern towns hosting several higher learning institutions, with at least four universities and colleges operating within the area. However, the availability of safe, affordable and suitable accommodation has remained a serious concern for many students. 

“The land is not yet available, but the council is busy putting measures in place to finalise the process. Once completed, we will be able to engage interested partners,” Amuthenu said. 

“The accommodation will not be free of charge, but they will be affordable and reasonable for students. Our aim is to ensure that students have access to decent housing close to their institutions,” she added. 

She further noted that improving student accommodation will not only enhance student welfare but also contribute to local economic growth through construction, investment, and job creation. 

The Council is expected to provide further updates once the land allocation process has been finalised and formal engagements with stakeholders begin. 

She called on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), pr ivate developers, and business partners to prepare to partner with the town council once the process is concluded. 

“We are inviting all interested stakeholders to be ready to work with us,” she added. 

She also noted that not all institutions in Ongwediva have hostels, and even where they exist, many students cannot afford them, leaving a large number dependent on unsafe or unsuitable private accommodation. 

– taimihaihambo2000@ gmail.com