The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) is stepping up pressure on authorities over what it describes as unchecked rent exploitation affecting students in tertiary institutions across the country.
The Union says it will on Thursday submit a formal petition to the Rent Control Department and the Ministry of Works and Housing, urging strict enforcement of existing rent regulations to protect students from arbitrary charges and poor living conditions.
Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Thursday (23 April), NUGS President Rashid Ibrahim said the petition seeks to address widespread violations of the Rent Act, 1963 (Act 220), particularly rules governing rent advances and approved rent increments.
He argued that many landlords around campuses are increasing rents without regulatory approval, placing significant financial pressure on students and their families.
“You cannot just stand up and say because of inflation you are increasing rent,” Ibrahim said, insisting that any adjustments must be sanctioned by rent authorities.
He accused some landlords of exploiting students with high charges for overcrowded and poorly maintained accommodation, in some cases demanding up to GH¢7,000 per occupant.
“The landlord will not paint the place… beds are infested, yet they keep increasing prices. That is clear extortion,” he said.
According to him, attempts by affected students to report such issues are often met with threats of eviction, creating fear and limiting accountability.
Ibrahim explained that while NUGS has already engaged the Rent Control Department, the union is now escalating the matter through a formal petition to compel stronger regulatory action.
He warned that if authorities fail to act decisively, the union may resort to further measures, including legal action and renewed calls for the establishment of additional rent courts and magistrates to handle disputes more efficiently.
“We will explore all options… until our grievances are addressed,” he said.
The NUGS president also indicated plans for a “name and shame” campaign against landlords who violate rent regulations, while pushing for stricter penalties such as fines and imprisonment under existing laws.
He cautioned that the situation is already affecting access to higher education, with some students reportedly deferring admission or abandoning programmes due to unaffordable housing costs.
“Some students gain admission but cannot continue because they cannot afford private hostel fees,” he noted.
NUGS says it will continue to engage stakeholders while intensifying advocacy to ensure compliance with rent laws and improved living conditions for students nationwide.
