UG Student Leaders Call for Review of Procurement Processes Following Campus Flooding Concerns

Student leaders at the University of Ghana (UG) are calling on the University's management to review its procurement processes, arguing that the current system is slow, bureaucratic, and negatively affects student welfare.

The concerns come in the wake of recent flooding incidents on campus, which student representatives say exposed long-standing delays in procuring essential materials needed for maintenance and emergency response in the halls of residence.

Speaking on Parliament on Air on Radio Univers, members of the University of Ghana Parliament House (UGPH) and several Junior Common Room (JCR) executives expressed frustration over the time it takes to address maintenance issues despite repeated reports through the appropriate administrative channels.

According to the student leaders, while procurement procedures are necessary to ensure accountability, the existing system often delays the purchase of essential items, making it difficult for hall authorities to respond promptly to students' needs.

They noted that unresolved maintenance issues, including faulty facilities and waste management challenges, have left many students dissatisfied, with some complaints reportedly remaining unresolved for months.

The leaders further argued that the delays often result in students holding JCR executives responsible, even though the procurement process is beyond their control.

Deputy Chairperson and Speaker of the UGSRC General Assembly, Nkonimadom Yeboah, said the challenge goes beyond bureaucracy and reflects the need for a more responsive institutional system. He explained that many students do not receive feedback after reporting problems, making it difficult to know whether their concerns are being addressed.

He also encouraged students to actively demand accountability from university authorities, stressing that collective action from residents would strengthen efforts to improve service delivery.

The student leaders are therefore urging University management to review and streamline procurement procedures to ensure timely maintenance, faster emergency responses, and improved welfare for students across campus.