Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Apaak has disclosed that first-year university students will not receive direct refunds under the government’s no-fee stress policy.
Instead, funds will be credited toward their second-year tuition fees.
Speaking on Joy News Dr Apaak explained that this approach ensures accountability and avoids logistical challenges.
He stated, “Rather than the physical reimbursement, going forward, as they go into their second year, what should have come to them to defer their academic fee for the first year will become a credit, which will then mean that as they go to second year, they wouldn’t have to pay because they have already paid for their first year.”
Adding “This approach helps us avoid logistical challenges and any potential impropriety.”
The policy, initially promised by President John Mahama during the election campaign, aimed to absorb fees for all Level 100 students within the first 120 days of his administration.
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu had reaffirmed this commitment, assuring refunds for students who had already paid for the 2025 academic year.
Despite allocating GHS499.8 million for implementation, the government has ruled out direct reimbursements for this academic year. Instead, funds will be disbursed directly to universities to streamline the process and prevent impropriety.