University of Ghana (UG) students have embarked on a three-day protest against increases in residential fees, demanding an immediate reversal of the charges and the abolition of the University of Ghana Enterprises Limited (UGEL), which manages some of the university’s accommodation facilities.
The protest follows concerns over a reported 26 percent increase in hostel fees, which the students say has made campus accommodation increasingly unaffordable, particularly for those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
The protesters argued that the rising cost of accommodation could force some students out of school, especially those who depend on affordable university housing to pursue their education.
They also accused the university’s accommodation management system of imposing an excessive financial burden on students without a corresponding improvement in the quality of facilities.
The students questioned the university’s commitment to providing affordable and decent accommodation, insisting that campus housing should support their academic pursuits rather than become an additional source of financial hardship.
They are consequently demanding the complete scrapping of the UGEL system and a reversal of the fee increases.
The Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Rosina Kyerematen, who received a petition from the protesters on behalf of the university, assured them that their concerns would be forwarded to Management for consideration.
“Your concerns are well noted. They will be forwarded to university management. The measures that have to be put in place to address your concerns are being considered, and you will hear from us,” she said.
Meanwhile, Management of the university has explained that the 26 percent increase being circulated was an initial proposal for some halls managed by UGEL and not the final adjustment.
In a statement issued by the Public Affairs Directorate and signed by its Director, Dr. Elizier Taiba Ameyaw-Buronyah, Management said engagements with student leaders had resulted in a reduction of the proposed increase, with fees for standard rooms shared by four students adjusted upwards by 15 percent.
It said UGEL was further engaging the leadership of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC), the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana, University of Ghana Local (GRASAG-UG), and its Board to reach a compromise that would be fair and sustainable.
Management also disclosed that residential fees for the traditional halls, which are directly managed by the university, had increased by GH¢500, from GH¢3,000 to GH¢3,500 per academic year.
The adjustment, it explained, reflected rising costs of utilities, maintenance and other services required to keep the halls in good condition.
Management acknowledged the financial pressures facing students and their families, adding that the university remained committed to dialogue with stakeholders to address their concerns.
It further indicated that the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs had met the group of protesting students and remained open to further engagements.
Students requiring financial assistance were advised to contact the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs or the Student Financial Aid Office for support.
The university assured the student community that their welfare remained a priority and urged them to continue using established channels to raise concerns.
By Florence Adom Asamoah