Students of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), are calling on the government to intervene in the rising cost of private hostel accommodation, saying the fees are becoming increasingly difficult for many to afford.
Some students say they pay more than GH¢6,000 for a room shared by four people, despite concerns about the size of the rooms and the facilities available.
They say the high fees are making it difficult to pay for accommodation while meeting other academic and living expenses.
Some private hostels have small rooms, with students sharing washrooms and kitchen facilities. This has raised concerns about whether the facilities are worth the high charges.
The Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has also expressed concern about the rising cost of hostel accommodation.
Speaking at a meeting on Monday, October 12, he said a committee would be set up to examine the situation and consider ways to address the problem, particularly in private hostels.
The students are urging the government to take urgent steps to make accommodation more affordable and ensure that private hostel operators provide decent facilities.
They believe such measures would reduce the financial pressure on students and their families and make it easier for students to find suitable accommodation.
