Love, Loans, and Late-Night Library Dates: Navigating Valentine’s Day on a Student Budget

By Kagiso Kgati, Host of Student Khaya Edited by Monica Brown

February. The air is thick with romance, social media feeds are flooded with heart emojis, and the pressure to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is on. But for university students across Africa, the reality of Valentine’s Day often clashes with the harsh reality of student budgets.  Love is in the air, but so is the struggle to make ends meet.

On this month’s “Student Khaya,” we’re diving deep into the world of love, relationships, and the often-precarious finances of university life.  How do students navigate the social expectations of Valentine’s Day without emptying their already-thin wallets?  How do they balance romance with responsibility?  And most importantly, how can they ensure their relationships are healthy and respectful, regardless of the pressure to spend?

We hit campus to get the inside scoop from students themselves.  For many, the idea of a lavish Valentine’s Day dinner is a distant dream.  “I’d love to take my girlfriend out for a fancy meal,” one student told us, “But my loan barely covers rent and groceries.  We’re probably going to end up having a picnic in the park.”  This sentiment was echoed by many others, highlighting the financial constraints faced by students.

But resourcefulness is a student’s best friend.  We discovered a wealth of creative and budget-friendly Valentine’s Day ideas.  From homemade gifts and shared movie nights to exploring free events on campus, students are finding innovative ways to express their affection without breaking the bank. “We’re thinking of having a games night with friends,” shared another student. “It’s fun, affordable, and we can all chip in for snacks.”

Beyond the financial aspect, we also explored the pressure that Valentine’s Day can put on relationships.  The constant barrage of commercialised romance can lead to unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy.  “It’s easy to get caught up in the hype,” admitted one student. “But it’s important to remember that love isn’t about expensive gifts. It’s about connection and mutual respect.”

This brought us to a crucial conversation about healthy relationships and consent.  Especially in a university setting, it’s vital for students to understand the importance of communication, respect, and boundaries.  We spoke with a campus counsellor who emphasized the need for open dialogue and consent in all aspects of a relationship.  “Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be about pressure or obligation,” they explained. “It should be a celebration of connection, built on a foundation of respect and understanding.”

Finally, we spoke with a financial advisor who offered practical tips for managing student finances, not just for Valentine’s Day, but throughout the year.  They stressed the importance of budgeting, tracking expenses, and avoiding unnecessary debt.  “Creating a budget might not seem romantic,” the advisor chuckled, “but it’s the most loving thing you can do for your future self.”

This Valentine’s Day, “Student Khaya” reminds us that love doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.  It’s about creativity, connection, and most importantly, respect.  So, whether you’re planning a grand gesture or a quiet night in, remember that the most valuable gift you can give is your time, your understanding, and your genuine affection.


Monica Brown, Content Director for CRW News and CRW Radio, Changemaker, Activist And Social Entrepreneur

We hope you enjoyed the article, there will be more articles from Kagiso and Monica coming soon.