A group of students from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have raised concerns regarding the institution's "70% fees before exams" policy.

Initially implemented to ensure fee commitment from students for the academic year, this policy has sparked discontent among the student body.

The university management recently issued a notice stipulating that continuing students must settle 70% of their academic fees before being permitted to sit for first-semester examinations.

Additionally, first-year students are required to clear their fees in full before taking their exams.

This decision has provoked backlash from some students who view it as a breach of their rights outlined in the university regulations.

They argue that the mandated 70% fee payment poses a disadvantage, particularly for financially unstable students.

A petition, obtained by JoyNews, called for a revision of the fee payment structure.

"As we wait and breathe, let us consider the crucial role universities play in shaping character, upholding values, and advancing academic research to enhance policy development and livelihoods in this country and beyond. KNUST, as a semi-autonomous institution, has been exemplary in respecting students' rights and supporting those from less privileged backgrounds, through its policy of admitting students from less privileged backgrounds and providing scholarships to support them, the university aims to assist those who are economically disadvantaged," parts of the statement read.

The petitioners advocate for allowing students to pay 50% of their fees in the first semester, with the remainder due before the commencement of second-semester exams.

"The university's student guide underscores the freedom for students to pursue their educational aspirations, with adequate learning opportunities provided.However, we wish to draw attention to the current academic fee payment structure. According to the university policy, students must settle at least 70% of their fees before sitting for end-of-semester exams. As articulated in the statement of student rights Clause eight section B, students have the right to petition the university regarding concerns and propose amendments to regulations and policies.

"Therefore, we urge all stakeholders to review the fee payment structure, possibly allowing students to pay 50% of their fees in the first semester and the remainder before the second semester exams begin. We trust that the university management will consider this plea, recognizing the challenges faced by ordinary Ghanaians striving to improve their circumstances through education in order to change the status quo not just for days, but forever. Education is a Right, not a Privilege, we write to oppose the "70% fees before exams" policy," the statement added.

In response, the KNUST Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Yvonne Osei Adobea, has indicated intentions to engage in negotiations with the university management to reconsider this directive.