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Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara, on Friday, 6 February 2026, officially launched Thuto House, a purpose‑built student accommodation facility in Soshanguve, marking a significant step in expanding access to safe, affordable and well‑located housing for students in township communities.
The launch, hosted by the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF), signals the government’s continued commitment to addressing the growing shortage of student accommodation near higher education and training institutions. Thuto House is strategically situated in Block VV, Soshanguve, approximately 1.5 kilometres from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Soshanguve South Campus and close to the Tshwane North TVET College, Soshanguve Campus.
Developed on previously vacant land, the residence now provides secure and dignified accommodation for more than 360 students, many of whom previously faced long, costly and unsafe commutes to and from campus.
Speaking at the launch, MEC Motara said the opening of Thuto House demonstrates the importance of practical collaboration between government, development finance institutions and the private sector in responding to social infrastructure needs. She emphasised that access to quality education is closely linked to access to safe and stable living conditions.
“Students who are concerned about their safety, transport or unstable accommodation are unable to fully focus on their studies. Developments such as Thuto House restore dignity and create an enabling environment for learning and personal development,” MEC Motara said.
The project was delivered through a partnership between the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), the Gauteng Partnership Fund, and black‑owned property developers. To support development, the NEF approved R39.5 million in patient capital funding, enabling the project to move from concept to completion and highlighting the government’s role in driving socially impactful investment.
NEF Chief Executive Officer Mr Mziwabantu Dayimani noted that student accommodation remains a critical challenge in areas such as Soshanguve, where thousands of students are enrolled at nearby universities and TVET colleges. He said inadequate housing has historically placed financial and emotional strain on students, often affecting their academic performance and well-being.
GPF Chief Executive Officer Ms Lindiwe Kwele said Thuto House was intentionally designed to support student success by providing a safe, secure and supportive living environment. She highlighted the importance of proximity to campuses, reliable services and recreational spaces in promoting academic focus and overall well-being.
Ms Gwen Nkosi, Chief Executive Officer of Hotechnology Prime, credited the project’s success to strong partnerships and sustained institutional support, particularly the roles played by the GPF and NEF in empowering black‑owned developers to deliver viable and impactful developments.
As a fully occupied facility, Thuto House stands as a scalable model for township‑based student accommodation that not only supports education outcomes but also contributes to local economic activity and community development.
