Haruna Iddrisu Proposes 5-10% Annual Cap On Rent Increases In Public Universities

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has proposed a cap on annual rent increases in public universities as part of measures to curb what he describes as exorbitant accommodation charges on campuses.

According to the Minister, a committee should be set up to advise the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, on a permissible annual percentage increase for university accommodation before any adjustments are made under the Fees and Charges Act.

He said such a mechanism would ensure rent hikes are reasonable, predictable, and reflective of prevailing economic conditions, particularly inflation, rather than arbitrary increases.

"We do not support exorbitant rent prices being charged across the country. It is my view that we should constitute a committee to advise the Minister of Finance before he proceeds with the Fees and Charges Act on what percentage increase is permissible each year. We can say, for instance, take inflation as a guide, 5 to 10 percent increase annually," Mr. Iddrisu said in a media interview.

The proposal, if adopted, would introduce a structured framework for regulating hostel and accommodation fees in public universities and provide students and parents with more certainty over rent adjustments each academic year.