14 May 2026
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Story Palesa Rantamo
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Photo Supplied
Delegates from Motheo TVET College and representatives from the UFS South Campus during a benchmarking engagement on student housing and residence management practices.
The University of the Free State (UFS) South Campus recently hosted representatives from Motheo TVET College’s National Artisan Academy Campus for a benchmarking engagement focused on student housing and residence management practices.
Strengthening student housing
The visit formed part of Motheo TVET College’s efforts to strengthen its student accommodation model as it prepares to expand its residence offering. Discussions centred on the operational structure of
Housing and Residence Affairs (HRA) at UFS South Campus, as well as the range of student support services available within the residence environment.
According to
Lerato Masapo-Changwara, Chief Officer: Housing and Residence Affairs on the South Campus, the engagement provided an opportunity for both institutions to exchange ideas and discuss approaches to residence administration, student development, and student support services.
“The discussions focused on the different divisions within Housing and Residence Affairs, including placement administration, housekeeping services, residence life programmes, student finance, student leadership structures, and internal residence operations,” said Masapo-Changwara.
Building student leadership and support
One of the key areas highlighted during the benchmarking visit was the integrated support system available to students residing on campus. South Campus residences operate within the framework of the residence manual and provide students with access to a range of developmental and support initiatives.
Students are encouraged to participate in residence leadership structures such as Residence Committees (RCs), Residence Assistants (RAs), First-Year Committees, peer mentorship programmes, and portfolio-specific subcommittees. These structures aim to promote student participation, leadership development, and community engagement within residences.
Residence leadership also coordinates awareness programmes and educational events addressing issues such as mental health, gender-based violence, study skills, and time management. These initiatives are supported through collaboration with divisions including Student Counselling and Development, Social Work Services, Social Support Services, Sports, Arts and Culture, and Health and Wellness.
Masapo-Changwara explained that student life and community development remain central to the residence system at South Campus. Residence Assistant portfolios play an important role in supporting first-time entering students and encouraging participation in both residence and campus-wide activities.
“Participation and collaboration in these programmes contribute to the holistic development of students and strengthen the residence community,” she said.
Prioritising safety and well-being
Student safety and well-being also formed part of the benchmarking discussions. UFS South Campus residences work closely with Protection Services and UFS Estates to maintain a secure living environment for students.
Access-controlled residence gates operate 24 hours a day, with students required to use student cards to enter residence buildings. Surveillance cameras are installed in key areas across residences and campus facilities, while ongoing collaboration with Protection Services contributes to campus safety measures.
In addition to physical security measures, students also have access to counselling and psychosocial support services through the campus clinical psychologist, social workers, and social support offices.
Strengthening institutional collaboration
As part of the visit, delegates from Motheo TVET College participated in a walkabout of the South Campus residences, including the day residence, Unison. The engagement concluded with both institutions expressing a commitment to maintaining professional relationships and continued collaboration on student housing matters.
The benchmarking visit highlighted the importance of shared institutional learning in strengthening student accommodation systems and enhancing the overall student experience within higher education environments.