Students’ union demands enforcement of rent laws amid rising hostel fees

The President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Rashid Ibrahim, has announced plans to submit a formal petition to the Rent Control Department and the Ministry of Works and Housing over what he describes as widespread abuse of rent regulations affecting students.

Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Thursday (23 April), Ibrahim said the petition—scheduled for submission at 10 a.m.—will demand the strict enforcement of Ghana’s rent laws, particularly provisions governing rent advances and lawful procedures for price increases.

According to him, rising hostel and rental costs around tertiary institutions have become a major burden, with some landlords imposing arbitrary increments without approval from rent authorities.

“You cannot just stand up and say because of inflation you are increasing rent,” he said, citing the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), which requires rent officers to assess and approve any adjustments.

Ibrahim described the situation as exploitative, alleging that some landlords charge as much as GHC7,000 per occupant in overcrowded rooms, often without improving living conditions.

“The landlord will not paint the place… beds are infested, yet they keep increasing prices. That is clear extortion,” he stated.

He further revealed that students who attempt to report such practices are sometimes threatened with eviction, discouraging complaints and enforcement.

The NUGS president said the union has already engaged the Rent Control Department but believes a formal petition is necessary to trigger regulatory action, as required under the law.

Beyond enforcement, Ibrahim warned that NUGS is prepared to escalate the matter if authorities fail to act, including pursuing legal avenues and advocating for more rent courts and magistrates.

“We will explore all options… until our grievances are addressed,” he said.

He also hinted at a “name and shame” campaign targeting landlords who flout the law, while calling for stricter penalties, including fines and imprisonment, as предусмотрено under existing legislation.

Ibrahim stressed that the crisis is already affecting access to education, with some students deferring admission or switching institutions due to unaffordable accommodation.

“Some students gain admission but cannot continue because they cannot afford private hostel fees,” he said.

NUGS says it will continue its advocacy and collaborate with authorities to ensure compliance with rent regulations and protect students from exploitation.