The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has ignited a significant student protest following a sharp increase in private hostel fees, sparking considerable concern amongst students and their families across Ghana. The demonstration, organized by Katanga, a University Hall group, took place during the National Youth Conference, a key event organized by the National Youth Authority at KNUST. The students, representing a diverse student body, voiced their frustration over the escalating costs of accommodation, a crucial element of university life and a significant financial burden for many students and their families. The demonstration was part of a broader effort by the Katanga morale group to raise awareness regarding issues confronting students on campus and to engage with the national platform to address challenges facing students, particularly regarding access to education.
During their presence at the conference, members of Katanga demonstrated placards expressing grievances, including the demand for ‘Reduce hostel fees now!’ and ‘We came to learn, not to sleep.’ The group also highlighted the perceived inequity of hostel fees, accusing some private hostel owners of deliberately disregarding regulatory guidelines from the Rent Control Department. According to Obrane, the financial strain is no longer solely on students; it’s also impacting families. He explained that the increased costs were directly tied to the rising cost of accommodation compared to university school fees, creating a substantial hardship for many. Furthermore, Obrane accused some private hostel owners of disregarding the government’s rent regulations, alleging that landlords are essentially exceeding what’s legally permitted, leaving students and families at a disadvantage. He argued that this lack of compliance undermines the principles of fair and transparent rent control.
Addressing the concerns of students, Obrane stated, “Everybody wants their children to enroll in university; if the hostel prices are more expensive than the university school fees, then it’s unfortunate.” He emphasized that the demonstration was a strategic exercise to draw attention to the students’ plight and to advocate for a more equitable system. The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, acknowledged the concerns and stated that the government would engage with relevant authorities to address the issue. He assured students that as Minister, he would take up this matter with the Minister for Education and the appropriate authorities responsible for controlling rent within the country. The government’s ‘Bed for All’ policy, aiming to expand accommodation options for students, remains a key objective. Mr. Opare Addo underscored that the government remains committed to upholding its legal obligations and ensuring that no individual or business operates outside the bounds of established laws and regulations.”
This protest follows a broader trend of student dissatisfaction regarding the rising cost of tertiary education, with accommodation emerging as a primary concern for students unable to secure places in university-managed halls. The situation underscores the potential for political instability and discontent among students, especially when their fundamental needs – access to education – are threatened.
The demonstration underscores the growing tension between students and the government, with the students demanding a more balanced approach to tuition fees and accommodation policies. Legal vacation: Samson Anyenini sends important message to lawyers (Audio).”
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Source: Adom Online
