Cape Peninsula University of Technology is grappling with its annual accommodation shortage, leaving many students without housing at the start of the academic year. Some first-year and returning students have slept outside campuses in District Six and Bellville, while others receive temporary placements as appeals are processed.
The accommodation challenges at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) have persisted into the new academic year, with students resorting to sleeping outside campuses due to limited housing availability. On 27 January, observers noted haggard students at the District Six campus, wrapped in blankets for shelter. By 2 February, more arrivals with suitcases sought help, their applications showing 'pending' status or awaiting appeal outcomes.
CPUT spokesperson Lauren Kansley explained that some students were relocated to temporary housing while assessments continue. The university manages 16,200 beds and partners with private options for about 4,000 more, accommodating 44% of its student body. Priority goes to those who followed application procedures, with 25% of beds reserved for first-years to ensure their safety and campus proximity.
First-year Lisakhanya Payiya, from East London and studying tourism management, described her ordeal after sleeping outside before placement at Hanover Residence. 'Being there was not nice because you do not even know what might happen as you are sleeping at night; it was scary. My body was aching, and I was just thinking about home,' she said. Eyethu Jaca, a KwaZulu-Natal student pursuing a Diploma in Accountancy, slept outside for two days after being directed to private accommodation. 'I came here to seek a residence and slept outside after a communication from CPUT that I should get a private accommodation and/or stay outside their residences,' he recounted.
Returning fourth-year Amarish Mpakumpaku, studying Senior Phase Education, faces exclusion due to a 57% academic average below the 65% threshold. His appeal, submitted on 31 December 2025, remains unresolved as classes begin. 'We are suffering because the money we got at home to use for groceries inside a residence is finished; we are eating it outside,' he noted.
Kansley emphasized the institution's compassion but stressed procedural adherence. 'We are compassionate to those who apply and, unfortunately, don’t get accepted. However, sleeping outside and then blaming the institution is not a true reflection of all the efforts that we make to assist,' she stated. First-year classes start on 8 February, and early arrivals are ineligible for immediate entry to allow for cleaning and processing. Past years saw protests, including clashes with police in 2025 over similar issues.