The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) and the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG) at the University of Ghana have defended the recent increment in the Students’ Development Levy, saying the funds are critical to addressing the growing accommodation challenges facing students.

In a statement issued jointly on Friday, January 16, the student leaders said the increase—agreed upon at a consultative meeting with the Ministry of Education on January 8, 2026—was aimed at financing student-owned hostels and other welfare projects.

“Our submission seeks to uphold the outcomes of that meeting and restore alignment with the consensus reached by all parties,” the statement signed by SRC President Richmond Ofori and GRASAG President Sadick Abubakari said.

The meeting, facilitated by the Ministry of Education and attended by representatives from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), University Management, the Chair of Council, and recognised student leadership, agreed on the following: SRC Development Fund Levy at GHS200, GRASAG Development Fund Levy at GHS350, Telecel broadband bundle made optional, and SRC dues at GHS50.

The student leaders stressed that the Students’ Development Fund (SDF), established in 2022, is student-managed and exists to finance projects that directly improve welfare, particularly addressing the high cost of accommodation in and around the University campus.

According to the statement, “Accommodation costs constitute more than three times the cost of tuition and academic-related fees for the average student of the University of Ghana,” highlighting the urgent need for additional student-owned bed spaces.

The SRC and GRASAG further explained that the Agenda for Sustainable Student Accommodation Projects (ASSAP) includes a 2,000-bed hostel facility, with land allocated and architects engaged. However, delays in finalising the agreed levy amounts have stalled mobilisation, potentially increasing costs and delaying relief for students.

“The core objective of the Students’ Development Fund is not to increase costs for students, but rather to reduce the cost of accommodation over time,” the statement added.

The student leaders noted that similar initiatives exist at top universities worldwide, including Harvard and Howard, and emphasised that this approach is a practical, student-led solution to a persistent problem.

They assured students and the public of transparency and accountability in the management of the fund, stating that the project would improve access to affordable housing, enhance safety, and support academic success.