The University of Ghana Students’ Representative Council(UGSRC) is set to launch a new Telecel data package initiative aimed at providing affordable and reliable internet access to students.
The initiative, originally conceptualized by the Boakye-Lincoln-led SRC administration, was further developed and presented to university management by the Tsikata-Zanyoh-led administration. It received approval in the latter parts of the 2023/24 academic year but faced delays in implemented due to leadership transition in October 2024.
In an interview on Campus Exclusive, former UGSRC President, Mr. Frank Tsikata, explained that the initiative was designed to supplement existing Wi-Fi services, particularly in areas with limited connectivity and during vacation periods when students are off-campus.
According to Mr. Tsikata, first-year students were billed for the package as part of their academic fees. For continuing students, the data package will be billed separately starting in the second semester, according to the current UGSRC Vice President, Jeffrey Adu-Yeboah(JayLit).
The current SRC has emphasized its dedication to keeping the package cost stable at the agreed rate, unaffected by market changes, until a formal policy review takes place. Future administrations may assess the possibility of increasing the monthly data allocation, depending on student needs and market trends. Vice President JayLit is hopeful that data and minutes in the package will see further increases in the coming years.
“All we are asking for is that, as time goes on, the policy be revised to increase the number of gigabytes given to students each month. We are starting our administration with five gigabytes, and I believe and hope that future administrations will review the policy and increase it from 5GB to 10GB or more.”
What’s in it for you?
Speaking to Telecel’s Line Manager for Educational Institutions in Ghana, Mr. Fred Torkornoo, on the key features of the Telecel package, he noted that students will receive 5GB of monthly data with a rollover option for up to three months, unlimited on-net calls (within the Telecel network), even without airtime, 200 minutes for on-net calls, 10 minutes for off-net calls monthly, and 50 free SMS units.For students who exhaust their data, additional bundles can be purchased at heavily subsidized rates, about 60% lower than commercial prices, via a dedicated code.
“Currently, the package we offer provides 5GB of data and allows students to make free calls to others on the same package without requiring additional airtime. Any unused data at the end of the billing cycle rolls over to the next month and remains valid for up to three months. This package mirrors what is available at KNUST. It also includes 200 minutes for on-net calls, 10 minutes for off-net calls, and 50 SMS, which, although not commonly used by students, is available if needed.”
While acknowledging the existing connectivity issues in certain areas of the university campus, Mr. Torkornoo stated that new network towers were being mounted in identified areas to beef up connectivity.
“We are focused on strengthening connectivity, particularly within and around the campus. Of the 15 sites identified for upgrades, eight have already been completed and are fully operational. Work on the remaining sites is ongoing, in partnership with the hostels. Additionally, we have earmarked 14 hostels for connectivity improvements and are committed to enhancing network quality in all of them.”
Regarding concerns about losing access to the package upon graduation, Jaylit assured that the SIM would remain active for a period following the completion of studies.
“It’s being done in such a way that being alumni of the school can use the same class for some time. And they’ve given it a one- year additional gap. When you are done with school, you don’t get cut off right after.”
How do you get to enjoy this package?
Dedicated SIM cards are expected to be distributed after Level 100s report and e-SIM options will also be made available.
Story by: Michelle Lartey | univers.ug.edu.gh
