Students at the University of Ghana (UG) are set to stage a demonstration on Friday, October 30, 2026, to protest rising hostel accommodation fees and what they describe as the commercialisation of student housing at the public university.

The planned march and rally are being organised by the #SaveTheUniversity Movement, Students for Accommodation and Concerned Students of Ghana under the theme “End Student Exploitation Now!”

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 25, the organisers said continuing students were being asked to pay at least GH¢5,000 for campus accommodation, with charges reaching as high as GH¢8,000 in some cases.

They argue that the increasing cost of accommodation is placing an additional financial burden on students and could undermine access to university education.

Students Raise Concerns Over Rising Accommodation Costs

The student groups have criticised what they describe as the growing commercialisation of accommodation at the University of Ghana, insisting that residential facilities at a public institution should remain accessible to students.

According to the organisers, the conversion of traditional halls into facilities managed by University of Ghana Enterprise Limited (UGEL) has contributed to higher accommodation charges.

They have also raised concerns about the university’s “In-Out-Out-Out” accommodation policy, which they claim leaves continuing students without guaranteed residential facilities.

The groups further allege that students who secure accommodation in campus halls continue to face challenges, including water shortages, overcrowding and poor sanitation.

Graduate students have also been identified as being affected by extended-stay charges when they require additional time on campus to complete research and other academic work.

The organisers are calling for a review of the accommodation arrangements to ensure that financial considerations do not prevent students from accessing decent and affordable housing while pursuing their studies.

Student Groups Demand Reversal of Hostel Fee Increases

The organisers have outlined several demands they want addressed by the university authorities.

Their key demand is an immediate freeze and reversal of fee increases, particularly residential accommodation charges.

They are also calling for an end to extended-stay fees imposed on graduate students who need more time to complete their academic and research work.

Other demands include the publication of a detailed breakdown of all university fees, including information on the authorities responsible for approving the charges.

The groups are further demanding a properly funded plan to improve residential facilities, study spaces and working conditions on campus.

They have also called on all Junior Common Rooms (JCRs) to organise open forums where hostel residents can discuss the accommodation fee increases and adopt a collective resolution.

The organisers maintain that students deserve transparency and meaningful consultation on decisions that directly affect their welfare and ability to complete their education.

Questions Raised Over Proposed 10,000-Bed Hostel Project

The student groups have also questioned the progress of a proposed 10,000-bed prefabricated hostel project for the University of Ghana.

According to their statement, the President was reported to have announced the project in January 2026, with factory equipment expected from Singapore.

The organisers say they want an update on the project’s implementation, raising concerns about the time that has elapsed since the reported announcement.

They have also requested clarity on accommodation plans for the 12 new universities announced by the Minister of Education.

The concerns highlight the broader challenge of providing adequate and affordable accommodation as demand for university education and student housing continues to grow.

However, the claims and demands contained in the organisers’ statement represent the position of the protesting groups. The university’s response to the allegations was not included in the report.

Where and When Will the University of Ghana Students’ March Take Place?

The demonstration is scheduled for Friday, October 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Participants will assemble at the Okponglo Gate taxi station before proceeding to the Legon Main Gate, where a rally is expected to take place.

The organisers have invited media organisations to cover the march and rally. They have also indicated their availability for interviews before and on the day of the demonstration.

The statement was jointly issued by the #SaveTheUniversity Movement, Students for Accommodation and Concerned Students of Ghana.

The planned protest is expected to bring renewed attention to student accommodation costs, the availability of residential facilities and the financial pressures facing students at the University of Ghana.

As the demonstration approaches, attention will be on whether the university authorities respond to the students’ concerns and what steps, if any, will be taken to address their demands.