President Mahama Announces Free Fees for September 2025 University Entrants

President John Dramani Mahama, during his nationwide “Thank You Tour” in Koforidua on July 20, 2025, announced a bold new education initiative. He confirmed that all first-year tertiary students entering in September 2025 will have their academic fees refunded by the government.

“In September, the new batch of first-year students who will be enrolled, money is ready to be reimbursed for their academic fees,” President Mahama declared to enthusiastic supporters at Jackson Park.

No Fees Stress: What It Means for Students

The initiative is part of the government’s flagship “No Fees Stress” policy designed to eliminate financial barriers and promote equitable access to tertiary education. Here's how it works:

• Portal Registration: Eligible students must register on the official portal. Those who’ve already paid university fees will be reimbursed via mobile money (MoMo) once applications are validated.
  
  

• Rollout: Starting September 2025, the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) will directly cover first‑year fees for incoming students.
  
  

• Current Progress: To date, over 150,000 prospective students have registered; of those, 34,500 applications have been verified, with 15,000 students already receiving confirmation that their fees have been paid.
  

Addressing Arrears & Streamlining Access

In addition to fee reimbursement, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to social investment. He revealed that six months’ worth of student allowances owed to nursing and teacher trainees have already been paid and pledged that future allowances would be disbursed monthly.

Why It Matters

• Boosts Enrollment: By removing upfront costs, the policy encourages students especially those from low‑income families to enrol without delay.
  
  

• Reduces Dropouts: Many students drop out or defer when fees aren’t available. The policy aims to prevent that.
  
  

• Smart Investment: With a focus on human capital, early access to tertiary education supports long-term national development goals.
  

What’s Next?

• Students should register on the portal before the July 31 deadline if they haven’t already.
  
  

• Those who already paid fees will need to verify their mobile money numbers to ensure smooth reimbursement.
  
  

• New admissions (September entrants) will have fees paid directly; no payment is required from families.
  

Early Impact & Public Reaction

Initial data show 15,000 students have already benefited, with many captured in videos celebrating the payment of their fees. Expect jubilation across campuses as reimbursements reach beneficiaries.

Final Thoughts

President Mahama’s fee refund promise isn’t just a post-election pledge; it’s a tangible move with broad implications for access, equity, and educational outcomes in Ghana. As registrations continue and disbursements roll out through September, this initiative could mark a pivotal turning point in national tertiary funding.