Rent Commissioner threatens legal action over UG’s proposed 26% hostel fee hike

The Rent Commission has threatened to take legal action against the University of Ghana (UG) over a proposed 26% hike in hostel fees. Acting Rent Commissioner Frederick Opoku warned the university to suspend the planned increase or face potential court action. The Commission is currently seeking legal advice from the Attorney-General to determine if an injunction can be secured to prevent the proposed increase.

Opoku emphasized that no institution is exempt from the country's legal framework when determining accommodation charges. The warning comes as students at UG are planning a protest to demand the reversal of the decision. Critics argue that the increase commercializes student accommodation on campus and raises concerns about affordability, particularly for students already struggling with living costs and other academic expenses.

If UG proceeds with the proposed 26% hike before addressing these concerns, a legal battle could ensue.