Mahama No Fees Stress Policy Launched, Allowances Kept Intact

President Reassures Ghanaians Of No Cancellation of Student Allowances After “No Fees Stress’ Policy, Introduction.

Following the successful launch of the ‘No Fees Stress’ policy and the subsequent refund of fees to first-year students in public universities, President John Mahama has assured Ghanaians that his government will not cancel student allowances.

He emphasized that the new ‘No Fees Stress’ policy will exist alongside current student allowances and loan schemes, and will remain accessible to all students — a move welcomed by many education stakeholders.

‘No Fees Stress’ Officially Launched at Asokore

President Mahama made this announcement during the launch event at SDA College of Education in Asokore, Koforidua on Thursday, July 4, 2025.

The policy was first introduced ahead of the 2024 elections, with a commitment to support all Level 100 students who gain admission to public universities.

What the Policy Covers: First Semester Fees for Freshmen

The initiative is designed to cover the first semester tuition fees for all newly admitted students. It seeks to eliminate financial barriers that prevent many young Ghanaians from entering university, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

This intervention not only complements the existing Free SHS policy but also bridges the gap between secondary and tertiary education.

“This policy is complementary, not substitutionary. It has not replaced existing allowances and loans but lightens the heaviest burden — the cost of entry — that keeps thousands of brilliant students outside the gates of institutions like this,” President Mahama said.

Early Beneficiaries and Long-Term Impact

The first batch of beneficiaries were the 2025 Level 100 students admitted in early January.

With its successful implementation, the ‘No Fees Stress’ policy will continue to remove the requirement for upfront fee payments — a longstanding obstacle for many first-year students.

Now, greater access to higher education is expected for all qualified students, regardless of financial background.

Restoring Fairness and Dignity in Education

President Mahama reiterated that the policy will restore fairness and dignity to students by ensuring that higher education is a right and not a privilege for the wealthy alone.

READ: How to Apply for “No Free Stress” Reimbursement for First-Year University Students

A Bold Step Toward Inclusive Higher Education

The ‘No Fees Stress’ policy is a game-changer in Ghana’s higher education landscape. By removing the burden of entry-level fees, the government is opening doors for thousands of students who may otherwise be left behind.

What do you think about the ‘No Fees Stress’ policy?
Do you believe it will make higher education more accessible for all?

Share your thoughts in the comments on the Mahama No Fees Stress Policy below or join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #NoFeesStressPolicy.

About The Author

Wisdom Kojo Eli Hammond is a passionate Ghanaian writer, digital advocate, education consultant at Education-News Consult, and a PhD candidate. He is dedicated to promoting transparency, digital inclusion, and consumer rights. With years of experience analyzing education, leadership, administration, and impacting students in classrooms and lecture halls, he also discusses a variety of issues relevant to Ghanaian readers — including telecom, business, and governance.

Wisdom is also Website designer and Search Egnine Optimization Specialists with over 15 years of experience in the field.

He empowers readers to make informed choices and stand up against exploitative practices. When he’s not writing, preparing students for BECE and WASSCE, or delivering public talks on leadership, education, or business, he actively supports youth initiatives and advocates for ethical digital transformation in Ghana.