The issue with on-campus accommodation

This means that there's an immense need and desire for accommodation close to universities. If students cannot get accommodation on-campus, many students will opt to stay as close as possible to their chosen university. In my opinion, this may largely be due to the want to be close to the 'university life' and the need to avoid exorbitant transport costs. With petrol costs continuously on the rise, it is no wonder students would rather walk or cycle to university.

More accommodation needed

The accumulation of student numbers at various higher institutions means that increased accommodation is urgently required. For prospective university students, it is essential that the need for accommodation is met. A division of Jika Properties, Junction-S, acknowledges this, which is why a student village called Ekhaya Junction has been built 300m away from the Tshwane University of Technology.

From an academic point of view, it has been shown that students living closer to tertiary institutions have higher graduation rates than their fellow classmates.

Bonus! It has been shown that there are social and academic benefits to these living situations. Going to university is a significant milestone in an individual's life. Not only are students furthering their education towards the goal of acquiring their dream job, it also signifies the period where they are about to leave home for the first time and fend for themselves in the 'real' world.

This means leaving the luxury of their mother's home cooked meals and the luxury of things getting automatically cleaned while they are outside conquering their next big adventure.

More often than not, taking the necessary measures to start treading the path towards their degree or diploma is a stressful and anxious time. Individuals undergo considerably more stress if lack of accommodation options becomes apparent.

This is why it is important to look for accommodation early. Not only will it save your parents the stress and agony of wondering where their 'baby' will stay, it will allow you to feel more at ease knowing that your accommodation for the year ahead is organised.

For more, go to www.junctionstudents.co.za