Drostdy Hall

In Drostdy hall old and new are blended together to give a rich melange of culture and history. The Hall comprises five houses and a dining hall, all built at different stages of the University’s life and reflecting different architectures. Oakdene (post-graduate men’s residence), Graham (undergraduate men’s residence) and Prince Alfred (undergraduate women’s residence) are among the older group of residences, each with its own rich history. Allan Gray (undergraduate women’s residence) was built in the 1980’s, while Celeste (mixed gender post graduate residence) was built in the 1960’s but only joined the Hall in 2007. The diversity of architecture and age reflect the diversity of the inhabitants, with 253 students from 17 to 50 years of age from 26 different countries all eating under one roof in the dining hall.

The values of this hall are:

• ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
• COMMUNITY
• PERSONAL GROWTH

These values reflect our appreciation of diversity and our commitment to a rich communal life within the academic context of the University. Both our undergraduate and post-graduate students have demonstrated a high commitment to academic excellence over the years by achieving high pass rates. Our involvement in the Grahamstown community grows every year with service taking on a higher profile. Community also includes our commitment to family – both family at home and the “family” that we become for each other through the joys and challenges of University life. The students in the hall belong to greater communities beyond the walls of the hall, including spiritual communities of several different faiths. We value each individual’s contribution and respect one another’s culture and beliefs. Our leadership development strategies are being strengthened, along with recognition for individual achievements outside of the academic arena. Our vision is to be a home where each individual feels valued and respected, and is able to excel in their chosen field of study, while growing as a complete person.

In many ways Drostdy is the most convenient hall in wich to live as it is close to town and the heart of the campus and is near to many Departments.

Graham House and the dining hall were both completed in 1940.  Prince Alfred House was built in 1958, and Oakdene House, once a boarding establishment consisting of a group of pretty Settler cottages, was purchased and converted by the University in the early sixties.  Allan Gray House was opened at the beginning of 1993.