University of Ghana students protest 26% hostel fee increase, demand UGEL system scrapping

Aggrieved students of the University of Ghana have embarked on a three-day protest against a 26 per cent increase in hostel fees, demanding an immediate reversal of the increment and the abolition of the University of Ghana Enterprise Limited (UGEL)-managed hostel system, which they accuse of exploiting students and compromising their welfare.

The students say the rising cost of accommodation, coupled with what they describe as deplorable conditions in some university hostels, has made campus living increasingly unbearable, particularly for those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

Speaking to JoyNews as the demonstration began on campus, the protesters accused university management of placing financial considerations above students' welfare, arguing that the UGEL-managed accommodation arrangement has become increasingly unaffordable.

They contend that the latest 26 per cent increment will further worsen the financial difficulties confronting students, some of whom are already struggling to meet the cost of tuition, feeding, transportation and other essential academic expenses.

The protesters warned that the rising accommodation charges could force some students out of school, particularly those who depend on affordable university accommodation to pursue their education.

The aggrieved students did not mince their words in expressing their dissatisfaction with the UGEL-managed hostel system, describing it as an arrangement designed to exploit students and make money at their expense.

They argue that the university's accommodation management system has placed an excessive financial burden on students without providing corresponding improvements in the quality of facilities.

According to them, the situation raises serious questions about the university's commitment to providing affordable and decent accommodation for its students.

The protesters insist that campus accommodation should support students' academic pursuits rather than become another source of financial hardship.

They are therefore demanding the complete scrapping of the UGEL system, which they believe has contributed to the increasing cost of hostel accommodation.

The protest comes amid broader concerns about the affordability of tertiary education and the financial difficulties confronting students in accessing basic university facilities.

The protesters believe that increasing hostel fees without adequately addressing concerns about the quality of facilities places an additional burden on students and their families.

They are consequently urging university management to reverse the increment and reconsider the existing accommodation management arrangement.