Students at University of Ghana Grapple with Sharp Fee Hikes Ahead of New Academic Year
A wave of anxiety and frustration is sweeping through the University of Ghana (UG) as students confront a recently released provisional fee schedule that shows significant increases in academic costs. The proposed hikes, averaging over 25%, have prompted urgent calls for the university management to explain the rationale behind the drastic financial adjustments.
The provisional figures, made publicly available, highlight the financial challenges awaiting both incoming freshmen and returning students just months before the start of the new academic year. Many are now questioning their readiness to meet these escalating costs.
College of Humanities Faces Hefty Increases
The College of Humanities, which accommodates the largest student population at UG, appears particularly affected. Level 100 freshmen in the college are set to pay GH¢3,110, an increase of 34% from last year’s GH¢2,319. Continuing students are also expected to pay more, with fees rising by 27% from GH¢1,777 to GH¢2,253.
Law Students Not Spared
The University of Ghana School of Law, known for its competitive programs, is not exempt from the trend. Incoming law students now face fees of GH¢3,226, 33% higher than the previous year’s GH¢2,435. Returning law students will see their fees rise from GH¢1,890 to GH¢2,396.
Third-Party Levies Drive Fee Increases
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A detailed examination of the fee breakdown suggests that steep increases in third-party levies are a major contributor. Auxiliary charges, previously set at GH¢255 for freshmen, have surged to GH¢767, a striking 200% rise. Continuing students will now pay GH¢455.
The breakdown of these additional charges includes:
- SRC Hostel Development Levy: GH¢300
- 75th Anniversary Legacy Project: GH¢100
- Telecel Data Package (Freshers): GH¢312
- SRC Welfare Dues: GH¢50
- Reprographic Fees: GH¢5
Other Faculties Also Affected
The trend of steep fee increases extends beyond the College of Humanities and the School of Law. Faculties including the College of Health Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, and College of Education have reported hikes ranging between 25% and 35%.
Calls for Transparency
The lack of prior notification before the adjustments has emerged as a critical point of concern among the student body. A coalition of student representatives is urging university authorities to provide clear explanations for the rapid increases. They warn that the financial burden may place significant strain on students and their families, potentially affecting academic performance and access to higher education.
As the academic year approaches, students are watching closely, hoping for clarity and possible measures to ease the financial impact of these sudden hikes.
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