Challenges Faced by University of Johannesburg Students: Mental Health, Finances, and Safety

Students at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) face many challenges. These include mental health issues, financial struggles, and safety concerns. These problems affect their education and well-being. Recent talks with the Portfolio Committee of Higher Education highlighted these challenges. This article looks at the key problems and the steps UJ is taking to address them.

Mental Health Struggles at UJ

Mental health is a major concern at UJ. Many students experience anxiety, depression, and even thoughts of suicide. Academic pressures, financial stress, and social isolation make things worse. The university does offer counseling, but these services are limited. This makes it hard for students to get the help they need.

To address this, UJ has partnered with outside organizations. The university also offers digital counseling services. However, the demand for help is much higher than what is available. More resources are needed to support struggling students.

Financial Challenges and Their Impact

Financial strain is another big issue for UJ students. Registration fees have risen sharply. For example, registration costs went from R3,870 in 2023 to R5,560 in 2024. Fees for residence students also increased. Many students rely on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for financial support. However, delays and processing issues with NSFAS only add to their stress.

To help with food insecurity, UJ provides meal programs. These programs assist over 6,000 students who would otherwise struggle to afford meals. But many students still juggle part-time jobs with their studies, which affects their academic performance.

Safety Concerns On and Off Campus

Safety is a major worry for UJ students. While campus security is generally good, the areas surrounding the university can be dangerous. Students, especially those attending evening classes, feel vulnerable. There are fewer security patrols outside campus during late hours.

To address this, UJ has increased patrols and added more security personnel. The university also installed 24/7 surveillance cameras. Additionally, UJ works closely with local law enforcement and community groups to improve off-campus safety.

Housing and Living Conditions

Housing is another issue. UJ has limited on-campus accommodation, which leaves many students with few options. Students often face long waiting lists or must find off-campus housing. Unfortunately, these residences may not always meet safety or maintenance standards.

UJ inspects off-campus housing before approving it. The university also has plans to build more on-campus residences in the future, which could ease the housing shortage.

Academic Resources and Technology Gaps

While UJ has a good reputation for teaching, large class sizes and limited resources can be a challenge. Students often have trouble accessing academic support and engaging with lecturers outside of class. For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lack of technology adds to these struggles.

To help, UJ offers laptop loan programs and expanded access to computer labs. These steps allow more students to complete assignments and research. However, more resources are needed to meet the growing demand.

Social Life and Campus Involvement

UJ has a lively social scene with many clubs and societies. However, some students feel that events do not cater to all groups. Students from underrepresented backgrounds often find it hard to take on leadership roles or participate in campus activities.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) has raised concerns about the need for more inclusive events and leadership opportunities. UJ is working with the SRC to ensure all students feel included and represented.

UJ students face many challenges, including mental health struggles, financial pressure, safety concerns, and housing issues. Although the university has made efforts to address these problems, more needs to be done. UJ is working to expand mental health services, improve financial support, and increase safety on and off-campus.

By continuing to invest in student support and focusing on inclusivity, UJ can help its students succeed academically and personally.