As a student, you’re starting an exciting chapter in your life. You’ll make new friends, fill your head with incredible knowledge, and have adventures that are sure to give you a fresh perspective. The last thing you want to worry about is your safety, but it’s an important part of having an enjoyable student rental experience. According to Elmor Kruger, Principal at Century 21 Potchefstroom, doing your homework when choosing where to study as well as the accommodation you rent can give you peace of mind during your campus days.
A hub for academic excellence
Potchefstroom stands as an unrivalled destination for scholars seeking the knowledge and skills to build thriving careers. The city boasts an impressive array of academic institutions offering qualifications across diverse fields. These include the renowned North-West University (NWU), Eduvos, CTU Potchefstroom, Vuselela TVET College, Potchefstroom Academy, Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, and Boston City Campus. Adding to its appeal, Potchefstroom is recognised as one of South Africa's safest cities, providing students with a secure and supportive environment to focus on their studies and personal growth.
“This is a university-focused town with a strong emphasis on student safety,” says Kruger. “Many areas, such as Die Bult, are specifically designed for student living, with secure housing and easy access to campus.
“The town also benefits from a close-knit community, frequent security patrols, and initiatives like neighbourhood watches. Private security services are prevalent in many residential complexes, and the presence of campus security adds an additional layer of protection. The smaller size of Potchefstroom makes it easier to monitor and maintain safety,” he adds.
Safety starts right at home
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of choosing a rental with trendy décor, stunning views, or a location close to buzzing coffee shops. While these can make student life more enjoyable, safety should always come first. Thankfully, being an academic city, many rental properties aimed at students have these features as standard.
“Students should keep an eye out for properties with features like access control, including secure entry points with gates, intercoms, or keycard systems, and 24/7 security with on-site guards or CCTV surveillance,” says Kruger. “Adequate lighting, particularly in parking areas, entrances, and hallways is important. Also, look for emergency features, such as panic buttons, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers, as well as proximity to campus, since choosing a property close to campus reduces travel-related risks and increases convenience.”
Beyond these safety features, students can take several steps to make their living space more secure, says Kruger:
- Keeping doors and windows locked at all times, even when at home
- Avoiding sharing keys or access codes with non-residents
- Using curtains or blinds to block visibility into their rooms
- Installing personal alarm systems or security apps for emergencies
- Getting to know neighbours and establishing a sense of community can also help with increased vigilance and security in the area
Stay vigilant when you’re out and about
Potchefstroom boasts a relatively low crime rate, making it a secure environment for students. However, it's essential students remain aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to minimise any potential risks.
According to Kruger, these can include travelling in groups, especially at night, sticking to well-lit routes, and avoiding isolated areas or shortcuts. Emergency contact numbers, including security, police, and medical services, should be saved on phones for easy access. Transport services like student shuttles or reliable ride-hailing apps should be embraced where possible to get around safely. Students should also stay informed about community safety updates through local Facebook pages/groups, neighbourhood watch groups, or university announcements.
Potchefstroom remains committed to ensuring students have peace of mind during their studies. There are several community-driven and professional security services that they can turn to for help.
“Neighbourhood watch groups are active in areas like Die Bult and other student-centric neighbourhoods,” highlights Kruger. “The South African Police Service (SAPS) has a visible presence in student areas and can be contacted for assistance in emergencies.
“Private security companies, such as Mooirivier Beskerming, provide rapid-response services, regular patrols, and additional security measures for rental properties. NWU also has a dedicated campus security team that monitors the university and surrounding areas, ensuring a secure environment for students.”
Supporting student safety, Century 21 Potchefstroom provides a comprehensive list of emergency contacts at the beginning of the year. “These key emergency contacts should be saved, including local police, campus security, ambulance services, and the fire department,” says Kruger. “Students should also have contact details for hospitals and neighbourhood watch groups, along with friends or family members for non-emergencies.”
An easy way to find private student accommodation
Finding private student accommodation can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s the first time renting a home. Thankfully, Century 21 Potchefstroom is here to make the process easier. With a variety of secure and comfortable options, they’re ready to help find a place that feels like home.
“Century 21 Student Hub, our dedicated student rentals division, is the go-to source for well-located properties in student areas like Die Bult,” says Kruger. “Our agency is known for excellent customer service, flexible rental options, and a strong focus on security, making it a trusted choice for students and others seeking real estate services. We welcome prospective scholars to reach out to our team to get started.”
Image credit: Town Hall, Walter Sisulu Avenue, Potchefstroom by Leo za1 | Wikipedia | CC BY-SA 2.0 | https://tinyurl.com/coaaon8