Rhodes University, located in Grahamstown, South Africa, is renowned for its vibrant campus life and strong academic reputation. As a small, highly residential university, most undergraduate students spend their first two years living in campus residences, fostering a close-knit community. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various halls and residences at Rhodes University, highlighting their unique features and offerings.

Halls and Residences Overview

Rhodes University boasts several residence halls, each with its own distinct character and atmosphere. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern living environment, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at the prominent halls on campus:

Miriam Makeba Hall

Houses: Chris Hani, Piet Retief, Thomas Pringle, and Walker.

Miriam Makeba Hall is located on the first side of the “Hill” and features two women’s houses and one men’s house. This residence combines comfort with a sense of community, ideal for fostering friendships among students.

Mandela Hall

Houses: Stanley Kidd, Adelaide Tambo, Guy Butler, and Helen Joseph.

As the youngest hall on campus, Mandela Hall offers modern facilities set in beautifully landscaped gardens. This hall includes both men’s and women’s houses and is known for its energetic wardening team, making it a lively place for students to thrive.

Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu Hall

Houses: Adamson, Atherstone, Robert Sobukwe, and New House.

This hall features a scenic stream running through its grounds, with ample lawns and trees perfect for informal games and relaxation. Located near the tennis courts, squash courts, and the swimming pool, it offers a picturesque setting for student life.

Lillian Ngoyi Hall

Houses: Centenary, Ruth First, Joe Slovo, and Victoria Mxenge.

Constituted in 2009, Lillian Ngoyi Hall is a newer addition to the campus, embracing the opportunity to develop its own traditions and ethos. This hall emphasizes strength, love, and courage while promoting engagement and responsibility within its community.

Courtenay-Latimer Hall

Houses: Beit, Jameson, and Oriel.

Situated in the heart of the campus, Courtenay-Latimer Hall is home to a dynamic group of young women. Living here promises an experience filled with camaraderie and educational opportunities among like-minded peers.

Kimberley Hall

Houses: Cullen Bowles, De Beers, Rosa Parks, and Goldfields.

Located on the second side of the “Hill,” Kimberley Hall comprises four residences, each providing a unique living experience while contributing to the overall community spirit of the campus.

Allan Webb Hall

Houses: Canterbury, Canterbury Annex, Salisbury, Truro, and Winchester.

The smallest hall on campus, Allan Webb Hall, offers an intimate setting within the historic grounds of St. Peter’s. It is designed for both men and women, providing a close-knit environment for personal growth and academic success.

St Mary Hall

Houses: John Kotze, Lilian Britten, Olive Schreiner, and Phelps.

St Mary Hall features four residences grouped around a central dining hall, all set in lovely gardens. This hall caters to both undergraduate and postgraduate female students, creating a supportive environment for academic achievement.

Hobson Hall

Houses: Dingemans House, Hobson House, Livingstone House, and Milner House.

Hobson Hall combines traditional and modern residence styles, centrally located near the library, sports facilities, and lecture theaters. This prime location makes it convenient for students to engage in campus life fully.

Desmond Tutu Hall

Houses: Amina Cachalia House, Ellen Kuzwayo House, Margaret Smith House, and Cullen Bowles House (only male residence).

Formerly known as Hill Top Hall, Desmond Tutu Hall offers a mix of gender-specific and mixed-gender living options, ensuring a diverse community for all residents.

Drostdy Hall

Houses: Allan Gray, Celeste, Graham, and Prince Alfred.

With the best geographic situation on campus, Drostdy Hall is centrally located, allowing easy access to both campus amenities and the nearby town. This hall accommodates both men’s and women’s houses, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

Founders Hall

Houses: Botha, College, Cory, and Matthews.

As the oldest hall on campus, Founders Hall maintains many traditional activities while providing a rich history for its male residents. This hall is a great option for students interested in preserving campus traditions.

Hugh Masekela Hall

Houses: Newly constructed residences.

The newest addition to the Rhodes University residences, Hugh Masekela Hall, opened in 2018 and shares the Kimberley Dining Hall with other halls. This modern facility caters to the needs of contemporary students while fostering a strong community spirit.