In a recent statement, Maradona Agyei Yeboah, the President of the University of Ghana (UG) Students' Representative Council (SRC), revealed that he was not invited to the Residential Board meeting where the decision to increase residential fees by 20% was made. The fee hike has caused a stir among students, with many expressing concerns over the increased financial burden it places on them.
Yeboah, widely known by his moniker "GURU," emphasized the importance of student representation in such crucial decisions. He expressed surprise and disappointment at not being included in the meeting, given the SRC's role in advocating for the interests of students on campus. The exclusion, he argued, raises concerns about transparency and the involvement of student leadership in matters directly affecting the student body.
The increase in residential fees, which applies to both on-campus and off-campus accommodation, has sparked protests and discussions about the affordability of university life. Many students have raised concerns about the rising cost of living, particularly in the face of limited financial resources and inflation.
In response to the fee hike, Yeboah pledged to engage with university authorities to seek clarification and possibly negotiate for a more equitable solution that takes into account the financial challenges faced by students. He reiterated the SRC's commitment to fighting for fair treatment and ensuring that students' voices are heard in all decisions that impact their welfare.
The incident has also brought attention to the broader issue of student involvement in university governance, with many calling for stronger channels of communication and collaboration between student leaders and administration. As the university prepares to implement the fee increase, all eyes are on how the SRC and other student bodies will respond to the situation in the coming weeks.
By Isaac Fiifi Klotey Mensah