KTU Hostels Shut Over Sanitation And Rent Abuse
Regulatory authorities have closed two private hostels serving Koforidua Technical University students following an inspection that uncovered deplorable sanitation, unlicensed operations, and allegations of exploitative rent charges. The enforcement action signals intensified scrutiny of off-campus accommodation in Ghana’s tertiary sector.
The Rent Control Commission and the Ghana Tourism Authority carried out an unannounced assessment of facilities around KTU after receiving complaints from students. The affected properties, Serwaa Heights and Adehye3 Hostel, were served with immediate closure notices. Officials observed heaps of refuse, poor ventilation, and unsatisfactory management practices during the exercise.
Eastern Regional Director of the GTA, Jones Haruna Nelson, said the facilities were not fit for purpose and were operating outside the legal framework. He stated that Serwaa Heights lacked mandatory registration and presented environmental conditions that posed health risks to occupants. Students at the hostels alleged they were paying exorbitant annual fees for single and shared rooms despite the substandard conditions.
Acting Rent Control Commissioner Frederick Opoku assured tenants that refunds would be facilitated for monies already paid. He pledged sustained collaboration between the Commission and the GTA to audit hostel operations nationwide and to penalize landlords who levy arbitrary charges while disregarding health and safety standards.
The crackdown reflects growing pressure on regulators to protect student welfare amid a surge in private hostel development. With universities expanding enrollment, authorities say compliance monitoring will be institutionalized to ensure accommodation meets statutory benchmarks for habitability, hygiene, and fair tenancy.
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Source: 1957 News
Author: Korkor Anumu
