Some students at the University of Ghana have welcomed the growing trend of door-to-door sales within campus halls, praising the convenience and affordability the businesses offer. However, many are also calling on university authorities to introduce clear regulations to address safety and privacy concerns.
Speaking to Univers Business, several students said the entrepreneurs provide an important service by bringing essential items directly to their rooms, saving them the time and stress of walking long distances to shops.
“It’s not a bad idea. They should keep selling because their goods are often affordable, and you can even bargain with them to reduce prices,” one student said.
Others noted that the activity also creates economic opportunities for young entrepreneurs trying to earn a living.
“They have to allow them to sell. Everybody needs money, and it also creates opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs,” another student added.
Despite the benefits, students expressed concerns about how the sales are currently carried out. Some said the frequent visits can be disruptive, especially when vendors knock on doors at inconvenient hours.
“Sometimes they overcharge students, especially first-years. Also, unrestricted access to hostels raises security and privacy issues. Loud knocking can disturb students who are sleeping or studying,” one student explained.
Others said they do not mind vendors visiting during the afternoon but complained about late-night or very early morning disturbances.
Students are therefore urging university management and hall authorities to regulate door-to-door sales by setting clear visiting hours and strengthening security checks, so that the benefits of the service can be enjoyed without compromising safety and comfort.
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Story by Lawrence Nii Aryee Tetteh | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
