THE Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) has announced that processing of the K1,950 accommodation top-up allowance payments for UNZA students has commenced.

On Saturday, President Hakainde Hichilema announced an increase in student accommodation allowance from K3,900 to K5,850 with immediate effect.

In a statement, Tuesday, HELSEB Chief Executive Officer Dr John Machayi said the payments were eligible to UNZA students residing off-campus.

“HELSEB wishes to inform the public that it has today commenced processing and payment of the accommodation allowance top-up for eligible University of Zambia (UNZA) students who are not accommodated in university hostels. This follows the directive issued by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, increasing the accommodation allowance payable to eligible off-campus students from K3,900 to K5,850.The payment being processed represents the K1,950 top-up, being the difference between the accommodation allowance already paid and the revised amount approved by Government. The top-up is being paid to eligible HELSB-sponsored UNZA students residing off campus,” said Dr Machayi.

“Following the Presidential announcement made on Saturday, 1 August 2026, HELSB immediately commenced the necessary administrative and financial processes to implement the directive. Upon confirmation that the required funds had been credited to the Board’s account today, payment processing began immediately. Eligible beneficiaries should expect the accommodation allowance top-up to begin reflecting in their respective bank accounts in accordance with the normal banking and electronic funds transfer processing timelines. HELSB appreciates the continued support of the government in enhancing student welfare and remains committed to the timely and efficient implementation of Government policy to ensure that eligible students receive their financial support without undue delay. The Board further thanks students for their patience during the period required to complete the necessary administrative and financial processes following the Presidential directive”.