From morning lectures to late-night strolls, student life on the University of Ghana campus is always in motion—and bicycles are now at the heart of it.
Aldin Cycles, a student-centered cycling service, is fast becoming the preferred way for students to move around campus during the day and unwind at night. The once-familiar long walks and chatty strolls are increasingly being replaced by smooth, bicycle rides that offer both speed and freedom.
The cycling service is making significant strides on the university campus. Despite the inherent challenges of operating without dedicated cycling infrastructure, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Rene Atiso has reiterated a strong commitment to student safety. This focus is transforming how students navigate the sprawling campus, fostering a healthier and more efficient environment.
Aldin Cycles, co-founded by Rene Atiso and Husamal Din Kofi Ahmed, was launched with a clear vision: to introduce a convenient, affordable and eco-friendly transportation alternative for students in Ghanaian universities, starting with the University of Ghana. Recognizing the daily mobility struggles faced by students in a large, densely populated campus environment, the company set out to offer a practical solution. The service allows students to rent bicycles for short trips, offering an alternative to traditional transport options while promoting physical activity.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive, Atiso underscored the company’s proactive approach to safety.
“We provide helmets to ensure student safety on campus while cycling, and riders are properly educated on the use of the bicycle,” he said.
That commitment goes beyond the provision of equipment. Aldin Cycles also ensures a positive user experience through regular bike maintenance, in-app tutorials and accessible customer support.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. Atiso acknowledged the difficulty of launching a cycling culture in an environment with few rules and little infrastructure for bikes.
“The first challenge was educating people. Another thing will be enforcing certain rules. There are a lot of students, and people do not like to read. There are tutorials inside the app—most people just skip,” he said
Still, Aldin Cycles has already made a positive impact on the lives of University of Ghana students. Many have embraced the service, citing its convenience and the freedom it brings. Students say the ease of access helps them save time and reduce reliance on other, often more expensive, transport options.
As the company continues to navigate the complexities of campus operations, its growing success at the University of Ghana could serve as a blueprint for sustainable and student-centered mobility solutions across other tertiary institutions in Ghana and beyond. The positive reception from students underscores a growing demand for innovative approaches to urban and campus transportation.
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Story by Deborah Owusu|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
