HELSB commences payment of top-up allowances to UNZA students

LUSAKA – The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) has officially commenced the processing and payment of the K1,950 accommodation top-up allowance for eligible students at the University of Zambia (UNZA). This crucial development comes swiftly on the heels of President Hakainde Hichilema's directive, issued last Saturday, to increase the student accommodation allowance from K3,900 to K5,850 with immediate effect. The payment specifically targets UNZA students who are not accommodated in university hostels, providing a much-needed financial boost to those residing off-campus. HELSB Chief Executive Officer, Dr. John Machayi, confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday that the payments represent the K1,950 difference between the previously paid allowance and the newly approved amount. He highlighted that following the presidential announcement, HELSB promptly initiated the necessary administrative and financial procedures to implement the directive. Upon confirmation that the required funds had been credited to the Board's account, payment processing began without delay. Eligible beneficiaries are expected to see the top-up reflect in their bank accounts in line with standard banking and electronic funds transfer timelines. This increment addresses a long-standing challenge faced by UNZA students, particularly those unable to secure on-campus accommodation due to limited bed spaces. The University of Zambia, despite being the nation's flagship institution, has historically struggled with accommodating its ever-growing student population. With thousands of students enrolled, the available hostel capacity falls significantly short, forcing many into often costly and sometimes substandard off-campus housing. The increased allowance is therefore a welcome relief, intended to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with securing suitable living arrangements outside the university. The move underscores the government's commitment to enhancing