Prioritizing Affordable Student Housing for a Thriving Campus Community  

Prioritizing Affordable Student Housing for a Thriving Campus Community  

As Walailak University continues to expand and develop, the demand for affordable housing among its growing student population has become more pressing. In response to the rising cost of living in the surrounding areas and the increasing number of students, the university has taken proactive measures to ensure that all students have access to high-quality, affordable dormitories. With a clear commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive campus environment, Walailak University has developed a comprehensive housing strategy that not only provides direct accommodation but also offers financial assistance to students in need.

Figure : The map highlights students dormitory areas.

Click on the map for a clearer view with more details.

Evaluating Affordability

With the rapid expansion of Walailak University and the urbanization of surrounding areas, the cost of housing in nearby regions has surged, creating challenges for students who seek affordable accommodation. University enrollment continues to rise each year, with an increasing number of students needing on-campus housing, which is rising from the year 2022 to 12.97% (from 10,994 to 12,420). As a response to the growing student population and rising housing costs, Walailak University has implemented a strategy to ensure that students have access to affordable housing options. The university recognizes that many students struggle to afford the higher rent rates of private dormitories, which range from 2,500 to 5,000 baht per month, significantly more than on-campus options.
In 2023, the university focused on expanding its student housing capacity. The WU Residence C building, which is part of this expansion effort, was constructed to accommodate the university’s growing number of students. This project exemplifies the university’s commitment to providing students with affordable housing solutions that align with the university’s growth.

Providing Housing

Walailak University currently offers 15 dormitories for students, providing a total of 5,500 beds. These dormitories are categorized into various options to meet the different needs of students, and the fees are structured to remain affordable for all. The university emphasizes creating a “Living, Learning, and Caring Center” to foster a supportive environment that enhances the academic and personal development of its students.
Laksananives is the dormitories constructed within the university campus which include, Laksananives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, and 18. The dormitory fees are organized based on the type of room and the number of terms. For students staying in the Laksananives’ Dormitory for three terms, the fees are:
      • Laksananives’ Superior: 2,700 baht per trimester or 900 baht per month
      • Laksananives’ Deluxe: 4,500 baht per trimester or 1,600 baht per month
      • Laksananives’ Suite: 4,800 baht per trimester or 1,800 baht per month
For students staying in the Laksananives’ Dormitory for two terms, the fees are:
      • Laksananives’ Superior: 3,600 baht per trimester or 900 baht per month
      • Laksananives’ Deluxe: 6,400 baht per trimester or 1,600 baht per month
      • Laksananives’ Suite: 7,200 baht per trimester or 1,800 baht per month

Laksananives 1

Laksananives 2

Laksananives 3

Laksananives 4

Laksananives 5

Laksananives 7

Laksananives 10

Laksananives 11

Laksananives 13

Laksananives 14

Laksananives 16

Laksananives 17

Laksananives 18

Laksananives 18

WU Residence, including A and B, are more luxurious than the Laksananives. The fees are structured as follows:
      • WU Residence (student): 10,000 baht per trimester or 2500 baht per month
      • WU Residence (room): 20,000 baht per trimester or 5,000 baht per month

WU Residence A

WU Residence B

These options provide students with a range of affordable accommodations that are significantly cheaper than private dormitories nearby. The university dormitories also offer essential amenities, including automatic washing machines, vending machines, water coolers, co-working spaces, and sports facilities like badminton courts and basketball courts. These facilities not only cater to students’ daily needs but also foster a sense of community, promoting collaboration and well-being.

Financial Support

Understanding that some students may struggle to pay their dormitory fees on time, Walailak University offers financial support in the form of scholarships and flexible payment plans. Students who need more time to pay their fees can arrange to pay in monthly installments, allowing them to remain in university housing without the financial pressure of paying the full fee upfront.

Figure : Request for Deferring Dormitory Fees Payment.

The university’s dormitory fees remain competitively priced, with rates that are often two to three times lower than those of private dormitories. For example, Laksananives’ Superior Dormitory costs 2,700 baht per trimester (or 900 baht per month), while private dormitories in the same area charge between 2,500 to 5,000 baht per month.
In addition to providing financial flexibility, the university ensures the safety and security of all students living in dormitories. Access to the dormitories is controlled through fingerprint scanners, and the dormitory areas are monitored 24/7 by CCTV and security guards. This comprehensive approach to student housing ensures that students can live in a safe, affordable, and supportive environment, allowing them to focus on their studies and personal growth.
Through these efforts, Walailak University demonstrates its commitment to student well-being, offering both affordable housing and financial support to ensure that every student can thrive in a conducive living environment.

Comparison of fees at Walailak University dormitory and other dormitories

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Walailak University’s dedication to providing affordable, high-quality housing is a testament to its commitment to student success and well-being. By offering a range of affordable dormitory options, flexible payment plans, and financial support, the university ensures that all students, regardless of their financial situation, can live comfortably and focus on their academic and personal growth. This comprehensive approach to student housing underscores Walailak University’s mission to foster a thriving, inclusive campus community where students can learn, live, and flourish in a supportive and secure environment.

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Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals