ACCRA, April 18, 2025 — Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has clarified that first-year university students will not receive cash refunds under the government’s No-Fee Stress Policy, despite earlier expectations.
Instead, the funds will be credited toward students’ second-year tuition, a move officials say ensures better accountability and avoids operational complications.
“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,” Dr. Apaak told Joy News. “This means that as they go to second year, they wouldn’t have to pay because they have already paid for their first year.”
The decision marks a significant shift from earlier assurances. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu had previously stated that students who had already paid fees for the 2025 academic year would be refunded under the policy, which was a flagship campaign promise by President John Mahama — pledging to absorb fees for all Level 100 students within his administration’s first 120 days.
While the government has allocated GHS499.8 million for the policy’s implementation, Dr. Apaak said logistical and integrity concerns necessitated a change in the disbursement model.
“This approach helps us avoid logistical challenges and any potential impropriety,” he explained.
As part of the revised structure, funds will now be channeled directly to universities, removing the need for students to submit refund claims or go through additional verification processes.
Although some students had anticipated receiving direct payments, government officials believe the credit system will be more efficient and equitable in the long term.
The No-Fee Stress Policy remains a cornerstone of the Mahama administration’s education agenda, designed to reduce financial barriers to tertiary education and expand access for young Ghanaians.
Please download our HOTDIGITAL ONLINE APP and follow HotDigital Online on our social media platforms to stay updated on our upcoming initiatives.
#HotDigitalHealthAwareness #CommunityHealth #GhanaNursesAssociationUK #HealthMatters #HotDigitalOnline #StrongerTogether
