Urban transportation company, TranSoniCa Ghana Limited, has introduced a modern fleet of buses to facilitate smooth transport experiences for students on the campus of the University of Ghana.
The new development is aimed at reducing the stress of students whose halls or hostels are far from campus, addressed through the use of shuttles. The old long red VIP buses are gradually fading as better means of transportation are being adopted.
As a new semester began, campus transportation saw a big change with the introduction of Transonic buses replacing the old VIP buses. These new buses come with different seating arrangements and a card system that aims to improve efficiency and timing. While some students appreciate the quicker rides, others are still adjusting to the new system.
Speaking to Univers News,the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Kwantwi Daniel Eillot during the recent review session, shared that the introduction of Transonic buses marks a new phase in campus transportation.
“We have brought thirty- and fifteen-seater buses, which are essential for students’ schedules. For the bigger ones, for instance, unless they are full, there is no way they are moving. This then causes students to delay. However, we have various departure times—15 minutes past the hour—for those who want to get to class early, like 7:15 for a 7:30 class, and those who want to get there right on time. We have about nine buses going around, ensuring speed and accommodation for all students who want to move to and from lectures.”
Mr. Daniel also added that one of the key factors enhancing the effectiveness of the Transonic buses is their integration with the campus transportation card system. The use of these cards streamlines access and helps manage crowding and payments more effectively. This digital system supports punctuality and user convenience while encouraging accountability.
“We are an automobile company that seeks to make transportation fast, easy, and effective. By so doing, we try to digitalise cash. One of our first products is the card system, where you pay a fee of GH₵30—GH₵50 for the card and GH₵20 for transport fare until the money on it is used up and needs to be reloaded. What this does is reduce the long queues we usually see, and avoid the loss of change between passengers and drivers. This card is also accepted at some shops in the Night Market for payments.”
Some perspectives from students who have used the new Transonic buses provide insight into the real-time experience of commuters.
While some students have seen the great merits of the Transonic buses:
“The bus is stress-free as compared to the old long buses, where you would sometimes have to stand. They would take us to class pretty late and had long queues just to get in. With this, however, when you have the card, you swipe, sit, and it’s ready to move.”
Others believe it would be wise to merge the two systems so that the merits of one can complement the shortcomings of the other, especially given the large student population.
The transition from the long VIP buses to Transonic buses represents progress in the University’s aim to improve student life and infrastructure. With better time management, comfort, and digital integration, this move signals a brighter future for campus mobility.
Story by JisLord Naaa Ablorh
Edited by Sika Togoh
