The Management of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has assured the general student body and the public, of its commitment to address the high increment in charges for accommodation.

In a press statement signed by the University’s Relation Officer, Dr Daniel Norris Bekoe, the Management indicated that its attention has been drawn to the matter and is engaging the relevant stakeholders within the private and off-campus hostels.

“The attention of Management of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, has been drawn to agitation by some students of the University, on social media about hikes in private hostel fees. Our investigation shows that, Indeed, some private hostels, off-campus have increased their rentals between 20% and 94%

“We wish to state that, the University, through the Office of the Dean of Students, has over the years, been engaging the Private Hostels Association (PHA) members and their leaders in the fixing of fees. This year has not been any different and hostels which belong to the PHA have increased their rentals not exceeding 12% as agreed with the University.

"Management wishes to assure the general student body and the public that every effort is being made to provide decent and secured accommodation for students on campus.” portions of press release dated July 16 read.

According to Dr Norris, the discussions are centred on ensuring hostels that have increased their rentals between 20 and 94 per cent revise them to the agreed rates, that is, not more than 12 per cent.

The university's student body on Friday demonstrated both on campus and social media, against what they described as ‘killer increment’ in charges for accommodation.

Some students took to the streets on campus chanting, “the son of the charcoal seller should have an accommodation” as they held placards with inscriptions such as, “Hostel prices higher than school fees? Poor students matter”.

Also, the Concerned Students Association of KNUST submitted a petition to Management, describing the rise in accommodation charges as unimaginable and exorbitant.

Following the students' actions to demand their rights to education in accordance with Articles 25 and 30 of the 1992 Constitution is not infringed upon, Management has urged calm as it takes the appropriate steps to resolve the challenges.

It also requested that all aggrieved students use the appropriate channels to register their displeasure and seek redress.

Meanwhile, Dr Daniel Norris Bekoe has revealed that discussions are ongoing with three (3) private investors for the construction of hostels beginning next academic year.