Authors: Immaculate O. Gillo (Institute of Rural Development Planning, Tanzania), Sadick Alex (Institute of Rural Development Planning, Tanzania) and Omary Magasha (Institute of Rural Development Planning, Tanzania)
Abstract: This study investigated about social challenges facing off-campus female students in higher learning institutions within the Dodoma City, Tanzania. The study used the cross-sectional research design and involved 96 female students who were selected using the snowball sampling technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire and an interview schedule. The analysis of data involved descriptive statistics and the thematic approach. Based on the findings, the study concludes that female students chose the off-campus residence due to various reasons, including shortage and high cost of campus hostels. Female students who resided off-campus faced various social challenges, including shortage of clean and safe water, insecurity, quarrels with landlords, long distance and unreliable electricity. Based on the conclusions, the study recommends that higher learning institutions need to work hard in securing affordable hostels that will guarantee cheaper cost and prevent students from experiencing the identified challenges.