Apaak: First-year tertiary students will no longer receive direct refunds

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak announced that first-year university students will not receive direct refunds. This is part of the government’s no-fee stress policy. Instead, funds will be credited toward their second-year tuition fees.

Dr. Apaak explained this decision on Joy News. He said it ensures accountability and avoids logistical challenges. “Rather than physical reimbursement, we will credit their second year,” he stated. This means students won’t have to pay for their second year since they already paid for the first.

He added that this approach helps avoid potential impropriety and logistical issues. The policy was initially promised by President John Mahama during his election campaign. It aimed to cover fees for all Level 100 students within the first 120 days of his administration.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu reaffirmed this commitment recently. He assured refunds for students who had already paid for the 2025 academic year. Despite allocating GHS499.8 million for implementation, direct reimbursements are ruled out this academic year.

Instead, funds will go directly to universities to streamline the process and prevent impropriety.