Ghana Hostels Limited has demanded an immediate and unqualified apology from the Acting Rent Commissioner of Ghana, Fredrick Opoku, over comments he made regarding accommodation charges at the Pentagon Hostel on the University of Ghana campus.
In a statement dated May 13, 2026, management of the company said remarks made by Mr. Opoku on Hitz FM were not based on adequate due diligence and created a misleading impression about the operations of the hostel facility.
According to the statement, although the hostel is a Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) investment, the day-to-day operations, tenancy arrangements, pricing structures and management decisions are independently handled by Ghana Hostels Limited.
Management expressed concern over comments which allegedly portrayed the institution as insensitive to the welfare of students and young people.
“While we respect the right of individuals and media platforms to express opinions on matters of public interest, it is equally important that such commentary is fair, factual and balanced,” the statement said.
The company further stressed that public commentary on such issues must be guided by accuracy, fairness and responsible engagement.
Clarifying its pricing structure, Ghana Hostels Limited stated that standard accommodation for four students in a room costs GH¢7,392 annually at the Old Pentagon Hostel and GH¢8,876 annually at the New Pentagon Hostel per student.
According to management, the amounts translate to approximately GH¢821.33 and GH¢986.22 per month respectively, inclusive of water, electricity quota and GH¢100 JCR dues.
The company argued that compared to rates charged by private hostels within the enclave, Pentagon Hostel remains one of the most affordable accommodation facilities on campus.
“The impression created that SSNIT is exploiting students is wholly inaccurate and without basis,” the statement added.
Addressing references to a GH¢28,000 hostel charge mentioned during the programme, management clarified that no such amount exists within the standard pricing structure.
However, it explained that a limited number of premium rooms fitted with additional amenities such as air conditioning and queen-size beds are available for students who opt for extra comfort.
“These rooms constitute below five per cent of the total number of rooms at the hostel and are mostly patronised by a limited number of students who insist on extra features offered strictly as optional accommodation choices,” the statement noted.
Management further disclosed that four-in-one standard rooms constitute more than 65 per cent of total rooms at the facility, while two-in-one rooms make up about 30 per cent.
The statement also clarified that hostel fees are charged per academic year and not per semester as allegedly suggested by the Acting Rent Commissioner.
Ghana Hostels Limited reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and constructive engagement with stakeholders on issues of national interest.
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