The Passenger Rail Association of South Africa (Prasa) has opened a new student residence in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. Complete with 700 beds, the redeveloped 12-storey building will provide safe and affordable housing to students from nearby universities and TVET colleges.

The project is a partnership between Prasa’s property branch, Intersite, and the Elevated Fund which aims to use Prasa’s unused buildings to earn money and support communities.

The building has study rooms, computer rooms, a gym, rooftop sports facilities, braai and social areas, laundry facilities, biometric access, and 24-hour security with CCTV cameras.

It is close to public transport and shops, making it easy for students to move around.

The building currently houses over 500 students and will reach full capacity of 700 National Student Financial Aid Scheme-approved students by January 2026.

PRASA board chairperson, Nosizwe Nokwe-Macamo, says the project shows how the company’s properties can help students, and support social and economic development.

PRASA officially opens 700 bed student accommodation in Braamfontein

Through its subsidiary, Intersite, PRASA has been able to deliver this building to students that are attending various institutions of higher learning within the Braamfontein precinct.

This morning was filled… pic.twitter.com/5T84RtFD3A

— PRASA Group (@PRASA_Group) October 14, 2025

-Report by Musa Mhlongo