Eris and SASAII Continue to Transform Student Living: Introducing 670 New Beds at Units on Birbeck
Following the successful completion of our latest venture, Units on Birbeck, this development not only symbolizes our commitment to enhancing student living conditions but also showcases the power of partnerships in addressing critical housing shortages across South Africa. "Increasing the availability of student accommodation is critical to supporting the academic journeys of our youth. We are immensely grateful for our partnership with SASAII, as we launch Units on Birbeck together. This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to not only address the pressing shortage of beds in the tertiary student accommodation market but also to provide innovative living solutions that will significantly enhance the student experience," said Johan Janse van Vuuren, Executive Head: Student Accommodation.
With the establishment of Sol Plaatje University in 2014, the demand for student accommodation in Kimberley has surged, intensifying the pressure on available housing. Nationally, the student accommodation shortage has become a significant concern, with estimates suggesting a deficit of over 300,000 beds in South Africa alone. Our new development of 670 beds at Units on Birbeck is a proactive response to this urgent need, providing high-quality, purpose-built residences that cater to the diverse needs of students.
As we delve into the development of Units on Birbeck, we've gained insights into the unique attributes of this project through conversations with key members of our team.
Khuselo Ndimeni, Assistant Development Manager, provided insight into the vision behind Units on Birbeck. "The design was inspired by the need to blend with the historical architectural landscape of Kimberley while providing a modern living environment. Recognizing the limitations of NSFAS funding in Kimberley, we aimed to create an efficient yet high-quality offering. Each student enjoys their own room, with common areas thoughtfully distributed across floors to enhance functionality. The development includes amenities such as uncapped Wi-Fi, a computer lab, and backup power—everything a student needs to succeed academically," Ndimeni explained.
In line with our commitment to sustainability, we have adopted EDGE green building certification design principles, focusing on reducing energy consumption, water use, and overall embodied carbon in the materials used. Features such as low-flow taps and shower heads ensure that water is used sparingly, while smart metering throughout the building allows us to effectively manage consumption and encourage responsible behaviour among residents. Moreover, a large solar PV installation on the roof and the use of non-resistive water heating systems significantly enhance the building's sustainability. This cost-effective approach was embedded into the design stage of the project, and we are currently pursuing our EDGE accreditation on an as-built basis.
Phumlani Matlakala, Property Manager at Units on Birbeck, highlighted the operational strategies that make the residence a desirable place for students. "Our focus is on providing high-quality, purpose-built residences that cater to students' needs. We ensure that all facilities function optimally and that residents feel supported throughout their stay," Matlakala stated. With a commitment to operational efficiency, the property management team employs preventative maintenance strategies, clear communication channels, and technology integration to enhance resident satisfaction. "We prioritize student feedback and foster a sense of community through engaging activities and open communication," Matlakala added.
Joyce Sefatsa, the Residence Manager, shared her insights on the daily operations and community dynamics within Units on Birbeck. "We strive to create a cohesive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can come together, engage socially, and focus on their academic pursuits," she noted. The accommodation offers a range of amenities, including fully furnished rooms, collaborative study labs, 24-hour security, a swimming pool, a basketball court, gaming lounges, and entertainment areas. "We want our students to feel at home, so we ensure that their living environment is conducive to both study and relaxation," emphasized Sefatsa.
To gain a student's perspective, we spoke with Thato Michelle Kakowa, a third-year Education student residing at Units on Birbeck. "What attracted me to this accommodation was its modern design and the positive atmosphere it fosters. Living here has been a smooth experience—I feel safe and supported, which is crucial for my academic success," Kakowa shared. She further highlighted the strategic location of the residence, saying, "Being so close to campus and local amenities makes life easier. It minimizes the risks associated with long commutes and allows me to focus on my studies."
Dacre Hattingh, Development Manager, elaborated on the technology integration in the building, stating, "Like all our previous student accommodation developments, the adoption and implementation of technology at Units on Birbeck were key to its success. To keep up with current trends, our management systems are fully digitized, allowing for seamless execution for both students and management in application management and day-to-day operations. Our security systems utilize facial recognition integrated with our internal property management systems for access control, ensuring the continued safety of our students. These are just some of the techniques that the building has adopted in terms of technology."
The collaborative efforts between Eris and SASAII exemplify our commitment to creating environments where students can succeed, fostering community, and supporting the educational aspirations of the youth. As Kimberley transitions into a recognized "University Town," we are excited about the future and our role in shaping it. Units on Birbeck is not just a building; it is a community designed to support the academic and personal growth of its residents.
In conclusion, the launch of Units on Birbeck marks a significant milestone for Eris and our partners. Together, we are committed to addressing the housing crisis and enhancing the quality of student living in Kimberley and beyond. As we move forward, we look forward to creating more opportunities for students to prosper in a supportive and vibrant community
