Student housing falls short in quality, livability and safety

Living in a compact space is just a part of university life, especially for students who come from the provinces to study in Phnom Penh. While the city keeps building an abundance of international-standard complexes, almost none of these are realistic choices for students, many of whom are being relegated to overcrowded, substandard accommodation.

Following the excitement of getting admitted to a university, students from the provinces must face the challenge of finding a place to live in the city. While universities like Pannasastra University of Cambodia (PUC) offer dormitories, space is not guaranteed. …

According to Lao they want to subsidize the school using the dormitory. Students now pay $12 for rent and $5 for water and electricity each month. However, some students who are unable to afford the rent do not have to pay. …

Given the continuous construction of high-end condominiums in the city, the growing ability of affording premium housing is beyond a doubt. Nevertheless, Liew says students who can afford high-end student housing prefer to study overseas.

Liew adds that currently developers will not focus on local student housing, “unless there are changes in the university structure and more international universities are coming in, which I don’t foresee because I haven’t seen any so far.” This leaves local people to be the main players in the market. …

 Natalie Leung and Catherine Harry
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/real-estate/student-housing-falls-short-quality-livability-and-safety