UG Explains Reasons Behind Reported 25% Fee Increase for 2025/2026 Academic Year

Management of the University of Ghana (UG) has addressed growing concerns from students regarding the reported increase of over 25% in academic fees for the 2025/2026 academic year, clarifying that the hike is not primarily the result of decisions taken by university authorities.

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Following the release of a provisional fee schedule that showed notable increases for both fresh and continuing students across all colleges, many students raised alarm over what they perceived as a sharp rise in the cost of education at the country’s premier university. The issue quickly gained attention, sparking widespread discussion among the student body.

In response, the university’s management explained that the increases reflected in the fee schedule are largely linked to third-party charges rather than core academic fees set by the institution. According to UG, these additional charges are introduced by student leadership bodies, particularly the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) and the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG), to fund their activities and programs.

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Speaking in an interview with Citi News, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Gordon Awandare, stated that management has limited authority over such third-party fees. He explained that while the university oversees academic charges directly related to tuition and instruction, levies imposed by student unions fall outside the direct control of management.

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Professor Awandare further urged students who are dissatisfied with the increments to direct their concerns to their respective student leadership groups, noting that these bodies independently determine and approve the charges meant to support student-related initiatives.

The clarification aims to correct the perception that the university unilaterally imposed steep increases on students. Management emphasized its commitment to transparency and stressed that it remains mindful of the financial pressures faced by students and their families.

As discussions continue, students are expected to engage their representatives to seek further explanations and possible reviews of the charges. University authorities have reiterated their willingness to collaborate with student leaders to ensure that fee-related decisions are fair, clearly communicated, and sensitive to the economic realities confronting students.