Hostel fees are choking students - NUGS raises concern amidst demand for urgent action
National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) is calling for urgent action to curb rising and exploitative hostel fees that are putting severe financial pressure on students across the country. NUGS President Rashid Ibrahim said many students are struggling to cope with escalating accommodation costs around tertiary institutions, warning that the situation is becoming unsustainable. He said, "Students are really being choked. Accommodation alone is becoming a barrier to education. In some cases, fees are increased without notice, and students are forced to pay huge advances just to secure a place to stay."
Rashid Ibrahim explained that private hostel operators continue to increase fees without following proper rent procedures, leaving students with little choice but to pay or risk losing accommodation. Students are often required to pay unusually high rent advances, sometimes covering six months to a year, despite clear legal provisions under the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220). NUGS has formally petitioned the Rent Control Commission, urging it to step in and enforce existing rent laws, especially those governing rent advance payments and fair tenancy practices.
The NUGS is also calling for sanctions against landlords and hostel operators who violate the law, as well as the introduction of clearer guidelines tailored specifically to student accommodation. There is also a need for stronger monitoring systems and safe reporting channels for students who face unfair treatment. If the situation is not addressed, more students could be priced out of accommodation, potentially affecting access to higher education.
Quick Summary
NUGS is raising concerns about the rising cost of student hostel fees across Ghana- a situation they say is becoming unbearable. The Union is calling for immediate action, hinting at potential consequences if the issue remains unaddressed.
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