Nsfas blames institutions and accommodation providers for students sleeping on the street

In an unfortunate yet familiar start to the academic year, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)’s housing crisis has, yet again, left many students sleeping outside its campuses. CPUT is no stranger to students arriving with suitcases and blankets in tow, lining the gates in crowds. Yet, residences reject many students because they arrived before admission opened, failed to apply for housing or haven’t heard back from the university about their status.

Providing 2026 application status updates in Pretoria on Thursday, 5 February 2026, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) commented on the issue and clarified their affiliation with the university. “In light of recent concerns pertaining to student accommodation at the CPUT, Nsfas wishes to clarify that CPUT manages accommodation independently of Nsfas, “ said Acting Nsfas CEO Waseem Carrim. Carrim, however, showed concern about the well-being of Nsfas beneficiaries at CPUT, and revealed the scheme is in communication with the university to understand challenges faced.

“Nsfas will support the institution in remedying the situation,” he said. The fund’s specific engagement with the university remains unclear. Amid student housing shortages across the country, the fund blamed institutions for not being proactive in assisting students.

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Nsfas said CPUT students resorting to sleeping on the street reiterated that accommodation providers need to confirm the funding status of students before housing them to avoid complications. It also criticised providers that house students without verifying their funding status as well as those that forcibly relocate students without following proper procedures. The allowance and accommodation rates for 2026 are currently under review.

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