University of Ghana’s 20% hall fee hike sparks mixed reactions amid economic strain

The University of Ghana’s decision to increase traditional hall fees by 20% for the 2024/2025 academic year has sparked widespread criticism from students and parents.

The hike, raising Residential Facility User Fees (RFUF) to GHS 3,000 annually for halls like Volta, Commonwealth, Mensah Sarbah, and Legon, has been seen as unjustifiable amid Ghana's economic difficulties.

The University’s Public Affairs Directorate explained the increase is meant to cover rising utility costs and maintenance.

Dr. Margaret Amankwah-Poku, Chair of the Committee of Heads of Halls, emphasized the need for the hike to maintain facilities and welfare services, although many parents and students expressed mixed reactions, with some finding the increase understandable given the rising cost of living, while others criticized it as exacerbating financial challenges.