Ghana Launches Fee Relief for Public Tertiary Students

Key Points

• Ghana fee relief for public tertiary students begins via a portal.
• Students must submit verified information before receiving support.
• Refunds are available for those who already paid their fees.

The Ghanaian government has launched a new fee relief program aimed at easing the financial burden on first-year students in public tertiary institutions. According to the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, the initiative targets students in public universities, technical universities, and nursing training colleges.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile program on May 10, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye said the initiative is being managed through a digital platform that verifies student details before releasing funds directly into recipients’ bank accounts.

“All eligible students must register at NoFeesStress.sltf.gov.gh to access the funds,” he said, clarifying that the relief does not cover students at private or subvented institutions.

The Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) is financing the scheme, which is expected to help thousands facing difficulties paying tuition and related costs.

Registration portal key to Ghana fee relief rollout

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye emphasized that enrollment data from the National Council on Tertiary Education and the Ministry of Education are being cross-checked to prevent fraudulent claims.

“This is not automatic,” he stated. “Students must fill out the portal with verifiable details, including valid bank account information.”

He explained that only after a student’s data is confirmed will payment be made. This is to ensure the system remains efficient, accountable, and fair.

So far, over 5,000 students have registered on the portal, with government urging more to sign up before deadlines are imposed.

Refunds for early payers and long-term sustainability of the policy

The government has pledged to refund students who had already paid their fees before the launch of the program—provided their registration details are confirmed on the portal.

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye said GH¢458 million has been allocated for the 2024–2025 academic year. However, he stressed that the final amount spent would depend on how many students register and qualify.

He added that the policy’s cost remains far below the annual budget for the Free Senior High School initiative, pointing out the importance of expanding financial inclusion in higher education.

“If families can’t afford GH¢1,500 for SHS, expecting GH¢5,000 for university is unrealistic,” he said. “This is why Ghana fee relief for public tertiary students is so vital.”