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.
The protesters accuse the university’s accommodation management arrangement of exploiting students and prioritising revenue generation over their welfare.
The students say rising accommodation costs, coupled with what they describe as deplorable conditions in some university hostels, have made campus living increasingly difficult, particularly for those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking to JoyNews as the demonstration began on campus, the protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the UGEL-managed accommodation system, arguing that it has become increasingly unaffordable.
They contend that the latest 26 per cent increase will further compound the financial challenges confronting students, many of whom are already struggling to meet the costs of tuition, feeding, transportation and other essential academic expenses.
The students warned that the rising accommodation charges could force some of their colleagues to abandon their education, especially those who depend on affordable university housing to remain in school.
Describing the UGEL-managed hostel system as exploitative, the protesters argued that students are being subjected to excessive financial burdens without corresponding improvements in the quality of accommodation facilities.
They further questioned the university’s commitment to providing affordable and decent housing, insisting that accommodation should support students’ academic pursuits rather than become an additional source of financial hardship.
The aggrieved students are therefore calling for the complete abolition of the UGEL system, which they believe has contributed to the rising cost of hostel accommodation on campus.
The protest comes amid broader concerns about the affordability of tertiary education and the financial difficulties confronting students in accessing essential university facilities.
The protesters maintain that increasing hostel fees without addressing concerns about the quality of accommodation places an undue burden on students and their families.
They are consequently urging university management to reverse the increment and reconsider the existing accommodation management arrangement.
