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Off-Campus Accommodation Policy
The Off-Campus Accommodation Policy prioritises quality and safety for students.

In a move to prioritise student welfare and ensure high-quality off-campus accommodation, the University of the Free State (UFS) has introduced a comprehensive Off-Campus Accommodation Policy. This policy sets out rigorous accreditation procedures and minimum requirements for private housing providers catering to UFS students.

Naledi Ntsuku, a Higher Certificate in Music Performance student residing in Victoria Kamano student accommodation near the Bloemfontein Campus, expresses her support for the initiative, stating: “Having access to safe and comfortable off-campus accommodation enhances our overall student experience and contributes positively to our academic journey.”

Quintin Koetaan, Senior Director: Housing and Residence Affairs at the UFS, adds, “This policy reinforces our commitment to providing students with conducive living environments, both on and off campus. It sets clear standards and procedures to ensure the well-being and safety of our students.”

Key highlights of the policy include:

Accreditation Process: Accreditation is granted annually, contingent upon meeting specified requirements. Providers must submit various documents, including property deeds, building plans, and tax clearance certificates.

Minimum Requirements: Providers must adhere to standards outlined in the Minimum Accreditation Requirements document, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks.

Transparent Procedures: The policy emphasises fairness and consistency in accreditation decisions, providing avenues for addressing appeals and complaints.

NSFAS Funding: Accredited off-campus accommodation may qualify for financial aid from NSFAS, further supporting students’ access to quality housing.

Maintenance and Student Well-being: The policy mandates compliance with relevant legislation regarding construction, repairs, and maintenance, prioritising students’ academic activities and well-being.

Disciplinary Measures: Students residing in accredited off-campus accommodation must adhere to university policies. Transgressions may lead to disciplinary action as per UFS Rules on Student Discipline.

Ensuring quality and compliance for student welfare

The UFS Off-Campus Accommodation Policy reaffirms the university’s dedication to students’ welfare beyond campus boundaries. It aims to create a conducive living and learning environment, ensuring all enrolled students have access to safe and comfortable accommodation.

The policy states: “Students living in accredited off-campus accommodation are expected to live in accordance with the values of the UFS. The UFS policies, regulations and procedures shall also apply to students who live in accredited off-campus accommodation.” This is in alignment with the university’s commitment to Vision 130 which is the strategic plan to reposition the university by its 130th anniversary in 2034, centred around values such as excellence, innovation and impact, accountability, care, social justice, and sustainability.

By adhering to these guidelines, the UFS strives to provide a supportive and enriching experience for its student community, fostering success both academically and personally.

Click to view documentClick here for more information and access to the full policy document.

News Archive

UFS holds memorial service for Prof Benito Khotseng
2015-01-09

Prof Benito Khotseng

The management of the University of the Free State is saddened by the passing away of Prof Benito Khotseng, former Vice-Rector: Student Affairs at the UFS.

Prof Khotseng died from a heart disease on Sunday 4 January 2015 at the age of 67.
He joined the University of the Free State as a senior manager more than two decades ago.

According to family and colleagues, his death has left a void in the education fraternity.

Prof Kalie Strydom, who has been a colleague of Prof Khotseng for more than 20 years, described him as a principled leader who did not promote and argue educational issues in his own interest.

“His focus was never on benefitting opportunistically in the short term, whether professionally or financially. I had the privilege of participating with Benito in many meetings and fundraising efforts where the correct values/principles and the organisations/institutions for which he worked benefitted, but other than so often happens in life, Benito did not benefit personally. We celebrate him forever, though with tears in our eyes.”

A memorial service for Prof Khotseng will be held at the UFS’s Bloemfontein Campus:

Monday 12 January 2015
10:00
Albert Wessels Auditorium, Bloemfontein Campus, UFS

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