University of Ghana students reject hostel fee increase
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on MyJoyOnline
Students at the University of Ghana protested on 9 November against the increase in accommodation fees decided by UGEL, the university’s management company. After a revision from 26% to between 15% and 19%, they still reject the 15% increase for four-person rooms, demand the abolition of UGEL’s management framework and greater transparency, according to the Economic Fighters League, which supports them.
Students at the University of Ghana protested on 9 November 2026 against the proposed increase in accommodation fees by the University of Ghana Enterprises Limited (UGEL), the company that runs the halls of residence. The Economic Fighters League (EFL) supports the movement, according to a statement issued under the banner of its student organisation, Students Command.
The university first proposed a 26% increase, later reduced to between 15% and 19% after consultations. The students reject these revised rates, in particular the 15% increase for standard four-person rooms. They demand the abolition of UGEL’s management framework for accommodation, the removal of its leadership and greater transparency in setting fees. According to the EFL, the increase would weigh on families, as the cost of living is already placing a heavy burden on household budgets.
The EFL also criticises the university’s Students’ Representative Council (UGSRC) and the postgraduate students’ association GRASAG-UG, which distanced themselves from the march. Both bodies cited the registration status of the organisers and warned about the Public Order Act, while acknowledging the financial weight of the fees and the ongoing negotiations with management.
