Abstract
Rising food prices have placed significant financial pressure on university students, particularly those residing in urban areas, such as Auckland Park and Braamfontein in Johannesburg.
This study investigated the purchasing strategies university students employ to manage increasing food costs and the barriers that influence their ability to secure adequate and nutritious food. The research further explored the role of budgeting practices, financial literacy, and institutional support in enhancing students’ food security. A quantitative correlational research design was adopted using stratified random sampling to collect data from students living in various types of accommodation. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and multiple regression techniques.
The findings reveal that while students actively engage in purchasing strategies, such as bulk buying, price comparisons, and shared meal preparation, these are often constrained by limited income, lack of financial literacy, and inconsistent access to affordable food outlets. The results indicate significant relationships between structured purchasing strategies, financial literacy, and food security outcomes. Barriers, such as inadequate budgeting skills and limited institutional interventions, were found to mediate the effectiveness of these strategies.
The study concluded that improving students’ financial management skills and expanding institutional support mechanisms can enhance their resilience to rising food costs. The findings provide practical insights for universities, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to enhance student well-being and promote sustainable food security practices in higher education contexts.