Students of the University of Ghana are raising concerns about the real-life impact of Ghana’s declining inflation rate, expressing skepticism despite government assurances that the economy is regaining stability.
The reaction follows comments by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2026 State of the Nation Address, where he indicated that Ghana is steadily restoring economic credibility. According to him, inflation has declined significantly—from a peak of 54.1 percent to 23.5 percent, and further down to 3.8 percent in recent times.
While the figures suggest macroeconomic improvement, several students who spoke to Univers Business say they are yet to feel the relief in their daily lives.
One student noted that although inflation is reportedly falling, the prices of meals and essential goods around campus remain high.
“Even though inflation is said to be falling, the prices of meals and basic things around campus are still high. It sometimes feels like nothing has changed. We are still paying almost the same amount as before,” the student said.
Another student expressed similar concerns, stating that improvements in economic indicators do not immediately translate into affordability.
“I think the numbers may be improving in the economy, but many of us have not really felt the difference yet. Things like school meals, groceries, and transport are still costly. The improvements seem to be slow or far away from our day-to-day life. It makes me wonder when the benefits will actually reach us,” the student explained.
A third student added that the perceived disconnect between official data and everyday experience is frustrating.
“They say inflation is declining, but when we buy food on campus, the prices are still very high. Even simple meals seem more expensive than before. Sometimes it feels like the numbers in the news don’t match what we experience daily. I just hope things will become more affordable soon,” the student stated.
Inflation measures the rate at which prices increase over time. A decline in inflation does not necessarily mean that prices have fallen; rather, it indicates that prices are rising at a slower rate.
For now, while national indicators may be pointing toward stability, many students say their daily expenses tell a different story.
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Story by Jeremiah Amuzu | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
