A lecturer at Kumasi Technical University, Dr. Solomon Fokuo, has called on John Dramani Mahama to fulfill the government’s “stress-free” policy promise for first-year university students.
According to him, the President assured Ghanaians that first-year university students would not have to pay school fees, yet many students are still facing financial difficulties months after gaining admission.
Speaking on the morning show of Wontumi Radio hosted by Oheneba Nana Asiedu, Dr. Fokuo stated that many students bought university admission forms because they trusted the policy announced by the President.
“If you make a promise to the people, you must deliver it,” he emphasized.
Dr. Fokuo noted that President Mahama had assured the public that no parent would have to suffer or sell their belongings to send their children to university. However, he questioned why many students are still struggling.
He explained that some students have spent eight to nine months in school without receiving even GH₵1,000 in support from the government, despite the earlier assurances.
Describing the situation as worrying, he called on the President to engage the Minister for Education and provide a clear roadmap on the government’s plans for university students, particularly regarding accommodation.
Dr. Fokuo also highlighted the difficult living conditions many students face on campuses. According to him, some hostels house as many as six students in a single room, with each student paying between GH₵6,000 and GH₵7,000 per year.
He added that students are also required to pay electricity bills, which have recently increased, placing additional financial pressure on both students and their parents.
Dr. Fokuo therefore questioned how students are expected to cope with these challenges if the promised relief policies are not fully implemented.