President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Rashid Ibrahim, Esq., has called for a more empathetic approach to university fee adjustments, stressing that any increases must reflect the economic realities of Ghanaian families.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive, Ibrahim emphasised that while fee increments may sometimes be unavoidable due to prevailing economic conditions, they must remain proportional to the income levels of parents and guardians.
He noted that the growing financial burden on students is becoming increasingly unsustainable and must be addressed through inclusive dialogue.
“If you look at our country and how inflation is always on the ascendancy, one would not expect that fees should be decreased. However, any increase must be proportional to the income of those paying. If the increase is not proportional, it means you are placing a burden on students.
“Every increase in fees must be discussed with students. Students must understand why the fees are being increased. If we collaborate and properly inform students about the reasons for the increment, it will bring some understanding,” he stated.
In addition to his call for fairness, Ibrahim also praised the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for its oversight role, particularly its directive that prevents tertiary institutions from implementing fee hikes without prior approval.
“I also like the directive from GTEC that no school can increase fees unilaterally without consulting them or the Ministry of Education. That is good because it prevents arbitrary increases in fees, as sometimes a vice-chancellor, a university principal, or a college principal may decide to increase fees on their own. The directive is therefore in the right direction, and we support it,” he said.
He further stressed that students must always be consulted on matters that directly affect them, noting that even when fee increases are justified, transparency and dialogue remain essential.
“I do not agree with the idea that fees should be increased unilaterally without consultation with students. Even if the increase reflects the income of our parents, they are the ones paying the fees. That is my take on the fee hike,” he added.
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Story by Oliver Arthur Acorlor | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
