UG Students Protest 26% Hostel Fee Hike

University of Ghana (UG) students are protesting a 26 percent hike in hostel fees, demanding the increase be reversed and the University of Ghana Enterprises Limited (UGEL) abolished. The protest follows worries over higher accommodation costs, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds who rely on affordable university housing.

Students argue that rising fees could force some out of school. They also accuse UGEL of imposing an excessive financial burden on students without improving facility quality. The protesters accuse the university of prioritizing financial gain over student welfare. The Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Rosina Kyerematen, assured the students that their concerns would be forwarded to management for review.

Management clarified that the 26 percent increase was an initial proposal for some halls, not the final adjustment. They stated that engagements with student leaders led to a reduction of the proposed increase, with fees for shared rooms adjusted upwards by 15 percent. UGEL is now engaging the Students' Representative Council, Graduate Students' Association of Ghana, and the University's Board to reach a fair and sustainable compromise.

The university acknowledged the financial pressures on students and assured that their welfare remained a priority, urging students to continue using established channels to raise concerns.