RISING FUEL COSTS PLACE FINANCIAL STRAIN ON NWU STUDENTS

Akhona Maphumulo

@akhonamaphumulo9

The recent fuel price increases in South Africa have begun to affect students at North-West University (NWU), with many adjusting their travel habits and monthly budgets to cope with the rising costs.

For some students, travelling home has become significantly more expensive. Abygail Smit, a second-year BA Communication student, explained that she relies on shared transport with other Namibian students to reduce costs. While she does not travel monthly, she noted that trips home during recess periods now cost around R3000 per person. “The rise in petrol prices now requires me to pay more if I want to go home,” she said. “It has created a lot of stress because I have to adjust my budget, and it also puts financial strain on families, especially for students coming from Namibia.”

Other students who drive regularly are also feeling the impact. Kirsten Muvingi, a third-year BCom Economics and Informatics student, spends approximately R2000 a month on petrol. She said rising costs have forced her to become more conscious of her fuel usage. “Every litre counts,” she explained. “I now plan my trips more carefully and try to combine errands to avoid unnecessary spending.” Muvingi added that the increase in fuel prices has affected her financially, as her allowance has remained the same despite rising expenses. “It leaves very little room in my budget for groceries, and I try not to add more financial pressure on my parents,” she said.

For first-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student Michiel Du Plessis, the rising cost of petrol has also led to lifestyle changes. Although he drives regularly, he now chooses to walk to class when possible in order to save fuel. “Petrol used to cost me around R200 a month, but now it’s between R250 and R300,” he said. “I walk to campus when I can to reduce costs.” Du Plessis added that the situation has created stress for both him and his family, as they are also dealing with increasing food prices. He is considering finding part-time work during recess to help manage his expenses.

The experiences of these students highlight how rising fuel costs are not only affecting transport, but also placing broader financial pressure on student life. From limiting travel to adjusting daily routines, many NWU students are being forced to find new ways to cope with the ongoing increase in petrol prices.

The rise of fuel prices (Source: Instagram). 

Edited by Isabel Burgers