In a decision that has sparked waves of enthusiasm across Ghana, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has instructed the University of Ghana to decrease residential facility fees by 25% for both incoming and current students. This order, given on February 6, 2025, represents a crucial movement towards making higher education more accessible and cheaper for Ghanaian students.
Minister Iddrisu highlighted the significance of affordability in higher education during a discussion with the university's leadership, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Amfo, as well as the Student Representative Council (SRC). He underscored that the university ought to consult with the SRC in upcoming fee-related decisions, guaranteeing that students are involved in issues that directly influence them.
A Welcomed Response from the University
Vice Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Amfo affirmed the university's dedication to carrying out the fee reduction and improving student participation in decision-making processes. "We have heard you, our Minister, and also our students, and we can manage to lower it by 25 percent universally. Moving forward, there will be significant student involvement," she stated.
Students React: A Mixed Bag of Emotions
Although the announcement has been mostly appreciated by students, some have voiced worries regarding the timing of the declaration. SRC President Maradona Adjei Yeboah remarked that nearly 80% of students had already settled their residential facility fees before this announcement. He called for refunds to those students who had already submitted their original payments, asserting, "We are grateful for the reduction; at least it will ease some burden from our parents. There should be a reimbursement for those who have already paid.
This initiative signifies the government's dedication to enhancing the accessibility and affordability of higher education for Ghanaian students. As the university endeavors to execute the fee reduction, students and stakeholders will be observing attentively to assess how this directive will influence the future of higher education in Ghana.