By:Kenneth Appiah Bani.
In a significant move aimed at easing the financial burden on students and their families, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed the management of the University of Ghana to reduce its residential facility fees. The new directive requires the university to adjust the fees from GHC 3,000 to GHC 2,500, effective for both freshers and continuing students.
This decision comes amid growing concerns about the rising cost of tertiary education and its impact on accessibility for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The reduction is part of the government’s broader effort to make higher education more affordable and inclusive, ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial challenges.
Speaking on the directive, Minister Iddrisu emphasized the importance of balancing institutional financial sustainability with the need to prioritize student welfare. “While we recognize the financial constraints universities face, it is crucial that these costs do not become a barrier to education for the average Ghanaian,” he stated.
The directive has been met with mixed reactions. Students and their families have expressed relief and gratitude, seeing it as a positive step towards addressing their financial struggles. “This reduction will go a long way in helping us manage our expenses,” said a second-year student.
However, university authorities have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their operations. A representative from the management hinted that the reduced fees might strain resources allocated for maintaining the residential facilities, urging the government to provide additional support to cushion the impact.
The Education Minister has assured stakeholders that discussions will continue to address any operational challenges the directive may pose. He further called on other institutions to review their fee structures in line with the government’s vision for affordable education.
As this policy takes effect, it is expected to bring some relief to students while sparking broader conversations about funding higher education in Ghana. The reduction marks a step in the right direction but also raises questions about long-term solutions to ensure both quality and affordability in the country’s educational sector.
