The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq., has publicly condemned the recent hike in hostel fees at the University of Ghana’s Pentagon Hall, describing them as “unreasonably high” and a matter of national concern.
In a strongly worded post on his official Facebook page, Osman Ayariga did not mince words. He wrote:
“Pentagon Hall, Legon, your recent hostel fees is an issue of national interest! Unreasonably High! We go enter your matter soon!”
His comment has since sparked widespread engagement online, with many students, parents, and concerned citizens echoing his sentiments and calling for immediate action.
Pentagon Hall, a popular private hostel facility on the University of Ghana campus, has come under criticism in recent weeks for significant increases in accommodation fees, leaving many students and their families struggling to meet the new charges.
Reacting to the development, Osman Ayariga emphasized that the youth of Ghana deserve better.
“We cannot sit back and watch while students are being priced out of access to decent accommodation on campus. Education is a right, not a privilege, and we will not allow exploitation under the guise of privatization,” he added in a follow-up comment.
In a separate chat, Osman Ayariga further questioned the justification behind the fee hike.
“The cited increase in prices of goods and services as the reason for the increment—how is that valid when prices are rather dropping? That explanation doesn’t hold water,” he stated, challenging the economic reasoning being advanced by the hostel operators.
Sources close to the NYA say the Authority is planning to engage stakeholders—including student leaders, hostel managers, and university authorities—to address the situation and explore practical solutions to ease the financial burden on students.
Student groups have also welcomed the NYA CEO’s intervention, describing it as timely and courageous. Many believe his stance reflects the frustrations shared by thousands of students across the country who continue to face rising costs in higher education.
As the new academic year approaches, pressure is mounting on hostel operators and university administrators to reconsider their fee structures and introduce fair, transparent pricing that prioritizes the welfare of students.
The National Youth Authority has assured the public that it remains committed to advocating for the rights and wellbeing of Ghanaian youth and will not relent in efforts to ensure accessible, affordable education and student welfare.
