Telegram is the newest application to be restricted on the University of Ghana’s Wi-Fi network, following the earlier ban on Snapchat by the university’s Information Technology Directorate (ITD), formerly known as the University of Ghana Computing System.
The decision has drawn frustration from students, who argue that the restrictions are unnecessary, particularly for platforms that support communication, collaboration, and information sharing.
The university’s Wi-Fi service is funded through fees included in students’ tuition. While the school management has the right to restrict access to inappropriate or harmful content, such as pornography or gambling websites, the rationale behind targeting communication and social networking platforms like Telegram and Snapchat remains unclear.
Some students have criticized the University of Ghana’s decision to restrict apps like Telegram and Snapchat on its Wi-Fi network, describing it as “absurd and ridiculous” as it interferes with educational use and forces them to use personal data despite paying for the service.
“I strongly believe the Wi-Fi limitations placed on apps such as Telegram and Snapchat are absurd and ridiculous because, first of all, we are paying for it. Secondly, Telegram is an app that can be used for educational purposes. We can send larger files there—files that would have to be split into two on WhatsApp can be shared as a whole on Telegram. Now, an educational platform that helps us has been restricted on the Wi-Fi. To use this app(Telegram), as well as Snapchat, we have to rely on our own data. So, why are we subscribing to the Wi-Fi in the first place if it doesn’t allow access to every app?”
“Restricting Telegram will pose challenges for us as students, as it limits one of the most effective tools for improving our learning experience. While I understand the university may be trying to reduce costs, we, as students, are simply seeking the most efficient means to make studying more manageable and productive.”
The students also highlighted the efficiency of the blocked applications, particularly in sharing large files, compared to other platforms.
“I think restricting access to Telegram is unnecessary because platforms like these are essential for sharing announcements, organizing study groups, and accessing academic resources. For instance, I frequently use Telegram to share and download slides, as well as receive updates from my department or study groups. It also allows me to easily transfer slides between my phone and laptop, which is much more convenient compared to WhatsApp, where the process can be quite cumbersome.”
The Deputy Chief Information Technology Officer (Deputy CITO) of the University of Ghana’s Information Technology Directorate has clarified to Univers that the restriction is partial, stating that chat functionality remains available while video download channels have been blocked.
“Telegram has been partially restricted. While chat functionality remains unaffected, channels for video downloads are currently blocked.”
Critics of the ban are calling on the university to reconsider its internet policies, advocating for a more balanced approach that safeguards academic freedom and acknowledges the essential role of communication platforms in education. In the meantime, students are seeking alternative ways to access these tools, raising questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the restrictions.
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Story by: Jeffery Elikem Apasu | universnews.ug.edu.gh
