KNUST Students Protest Rising Private Hostel Fees

Students of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have protested against rising private accommodation costs, with some students reportedly paying between GH₵5,000 and GH₵10,000 per academic year.

The protest was staged by students of University Hall (Katanga) during the National Youth Conference held on the KNUST campus. The students called for action over what they described as increasingly unaffordable hostel charges, which they say are placing significant financial pressure on students and their families.

Meanwhile, Unity Hall (Conti) held a silent procession on campus to communicate their displeasure over the recent hikes in private hostel prices. The procession adds to growing concerns among students over the rising cost of accommodation.

Hall Master of Unity Hall, Prof. Richard Kodzo Avuglah, backed the concerns, noting that some private hostels charge between GH₵6,000 and GH₵7,000 per student, while accommodation in traditional university halls costs about GH₵2,167.80 per student, including utilities such as water, electricity and internet.

Prof. Avuglah said the high cost of private accommodation is also creating pressure on university halls, particularly as continuing students who cannot afford private hostels seek extensions to remain in traditional halls. He welcomed efforts by the Rent Control Department to regulate private accommodation and called for stronger measures to address excessive charges.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has assured students that the government will engage the relevant authorities and hostel operators to address the issue. He said discussions would be held to ensure accommodation charges are reasonable and in line with Ghana’s laws.