The University of Namibia (Unam) is reshaping the landscape of student accommodation with its revamped hostel fees for 2024, designed to make campus living more accessible than ever.
Unam’s public relations officer Simon Namesho announced that the university is actively addressing student concerns by decoupling mandatory breakfast from hostel fees.
These changes, he said, allow students to customise their meal plans, based on personal preferences, financial constraints and schedules.
“Recognising the financial challenges faced by students, Unam has also implemented a flexible payment system. Instead of a full semester fee payment upfront, students are now required to pay a reasonable 20% deposit at registration, with the remaining balance spread evenly over 10 months, providing financial relief throughout the academic year,” he said.
He further said the university offers a range of room types across its campuses, each with distinct rates – from quadruple rooms to single rooms, the hostel fees are structured to accommodate every student’s budget.
Maintaining transparency, Namesho highlighted that a Namibian/SADC student in a single room at the main campus, after the 20% deposit, would pay N$1 382 monthly over 10 months, describing it “a testament to the university’s dedication to providing affordable housing to its students”.
“To sustain high-quality facilities, the university has retained the wear and tear fee at N$975 due at or before registration. This fee ensures that hostel facilities remain in optimal condition for all residents. Students must settle any outstanding hostel fees from previous years before registration, a policy aimed at upholding the quality of accommodation and services provided by Unam,” he said.
Namesho emphasised that the revised fee structure and flexible payment options are not just about numbers, but about creating an ideal learning environment.
Living on campus offers students convenience, community and a chance to fully engage in university life, he said.
Namesho encouraged the students to explore available hostel options.
“Unam sees the changes as an investment in students’ academic success and well-being. Hostel admission status for 2024 will be communicated to applicants via email between 4-15 December 2023,” he said.
– priscillamukokobi@gmail.com
Caption:
Affordable living… With the revamped hostel fees, Unam students will pay as little as N$1 382 monthly, starting from the 2024 academic year.
Photo: Emmency Nuukala