Over 7,000 first-year students at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) have benefited from the government’s ‘No Fees Stress’ policy. This policy covers academic-related fees for new students in public higher education institutions. Mr. James Clarke Hayford, UENR Registrar, confirmed this significant impact on freshman enrollment.
The ‘No Fees Stress’ policy is a government initiative. It removes financial barriers to higher education for first-year students. The policy covers academic fees across public universities, technical institutions, colleges of education, and nursing training colleges. This support directly impacts students' ability to pursue tertiary education without upfront financial strain.
This policy fits into Ghana's broader strategy to enhance access to education and human capital development. Increased access to tertiary education is vital for national economic growth and skill development. Previous government initiatives, such as the Free Senior High School policy, laid the groundwork for expanded educational opportunities. The ‘No Fees Stress’ policy extends this focus to the university level, targeting a critical transition point for many students.
Mr. Hayford lauded the policy’s implementation during an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA). He serves as Registrar for the Dean of Students Office and Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations Officer. He stated, “In fact, the No Fees Stress policy is making it easier for students to access university education.” This highlights the policy's direct and positive effect on student matriculation.
The policy has significantly boosted enrollment at UENR. The university recorded its highest-ever intake of 8,144 fresh students for the 2025/2026 academic year. This indicates a strong positive response from prospective students. The increased numbers suggest the policy is effectively reaching its target demographic.
While successful, some fresh students have not accessed the policy for unknown reasons. This suggests a need for continued awareness campaigns or clarification of access procedures. The university’s total student population now exceeds 20,000, partly due to this policy’s success. The policy has lessened the financial load on new students, particularly regarding housing costs.
The government's commitment to strengthening this initiative will be closely watched. Its continued strong implementation will ensure more students can pursue higher education. This will likely lead to a more skilled workforce and a stronger economy in the long term. Decision-makers must ensure sustained funding and efficient administration for the policy's full impact to be realized.