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The University of Ghana has unveiled significant changes to its student accommodation policy for the upcoming academic year, 2023/2024. The decisions, which were announced by the University’s Residence Board, aim to provide greater clarity, transparency, and equitable access to accommodation for its students.

In a statement released by Prof. Gordon A. Awandare, Chairman of the Residence Board, the following key points were highlighted:

1. Transition to New Accommodation Policy: The University will continue its transition to the “In-Out-Out-Out” policy, which was introduced in the 2022/2023 academic year. Traditional halls will now be exclusively reserved for first-year undergraduate students. All first-year students who were accommodated in traditional halls in the previous academic year must seek alternative accommodation options in UGEL Halls, private hostels, or off-campus facilities.
2. Continuity for Special Needs and Senior Students: Students with Special Needs and those in Levels 300 and 400 who resided in traditional halls during the 2022/2023 academic year will be allowed to retain their accommodation until they complete their programs.
3. Introduction of a Random Bed Assignment System: A new bed allocation system designed by the University of Ghana’s Computing Systems (UGCS) will be implemented for the 2023/2024 academic year. This system aims to provide transparency and equity in room allocation. The random assignment of beds will be conducted openly for all stakeholders to observe.
4. Allocation Percentage: Under the new system, 60% of available spaces in UGEL Halls will be reserved for Level 200/second-year undergraduate students, while 20% each will be allocated to undergraduate students in Level 300 and Level 400. Traditional halls will be assigned entirely to Level 100/first-year students.
5. Opt-In Process for Bed Assignment: Students interested in participating in the random bed assignment system must opt in after completing their academic registration using the provided web link (https://sts.ug.edu.gh/).
6. Early Registration Encouraged: To secure accommodation through the random assignment system, all students are strongly encouraged to complete their academic registration and express their interest early.
7. Bed Allocation Date: The random bed allocation for UGEL halls is scheduled for Friday, October 6, 2023, at 10 a.m. Students wishing to participate must sign up by Thursday, October 5, 2023.
8. Alternative Accommodation: The University emphasized that admission does not guarantee accommodation, and students who do not secure on-campus housing should make alternative arrangements.
9. Warning Against Illegal Payments: The University reiterated that under no circumstances should students or their parents/guardians make payments to anyone for a bed, as it is illegal and violates University regulations. Both the seller and buyer will face sanctions for such actions.
10. Strict Enforcement Against “Perching”: “Perching” (unauthorized occupancy of rooms) is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary procedures and sanctions for defaulting students.

The University’s Residence Board and Management are committed to enhancing the student accommodation experience while ensuring fairness and compliance with University regulations. These changes reflect a proactive approach to addressing accommodation challenges faced by students.

Students, parents, and all stakeholders are advised to stay informed about these developments and follow the prescribed procedures to secure accommodation for the upcoming academic year. The University remains dedicated to providing a conducive environment for learning and living.

For more information and updates, students are encouraged to visit the official University website.

The University of Ghana is at the forefront of enhancing student accommodation, aiming to provide equitable access and transparency in allocation for the 2023/2024 academic year.