UG students plan protest over 26% accommodation fee hike

The Concerned Students’ Movement of the University of Ghana has announced plans to stage a protest on Monday, November 2, against a 26% increase in accommodation fees at university halls and facilities managed by the University of Ghana Enterprise Limited (UGEL).

The group is calling for a reduction in the revised charges, refunds for students who have already paid the increased fees and greater transparency in decisions concerning accommodation costs.

Speaking to Citi News, a member of the movement, Ishmael Oduro-Acheampong, said the group was engaging the Dean of Students’ Affairs and other university authorities in an attempt to resolve the concerns before the planned demonstration.

He described the revised accommodation fees as excessive, arguing that charges for some facilities had risen significantly within just two semesters.

He cited examples of accommodation facilities that previously cost students between GH₵3,000 and GH₵4,000 but are now priced at approximately GH₵8,000.

Mr Oduro-Acheampong also questioned the process through which the increases were determined, insisting that students should be consulted and provided with clear explanations before new charges are introduced.

He stressed that accommodation fees should correspond with the quality of services provided, cautioning against charging premium rates for facilities that fail to meet comparable standards.

The movement is further demanding greater accountability from the University of Ghana Students’ Representative Council (SRC), particularly in its handling of matters affecting students.

Mr Oduro-Acheampong said the group expected university authorities to justify the increases and explain how the revised charges reflected the quality of accommodation and services available to students.