Perceptions of Students of University of Cape Coast Regarding Cost-Sharing and Quality Higher Education Provision

Abstract

The study explored the perceptions of University of Cape Coast students on the implementation of cost-sharing policy. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey design and the stratified sampling technique were adopted to sample the views of 389 students from levels 100 - 400. A self-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analysed using means and standard deviation, one sample-test and independent sample t-test. The study revealed that the students in University of Cape Coast (UCC) acknowledged revenue from cost-sharing could be used for expansion of facilities. The study also revealed that respondents agreed that cost-sharing may have negative effects on their academic performance. The respondents also agreed with the statement that financial hardship from cost-sharing lead to poor academic performance. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that the District/Municipal/Metropolitan Assemblies should consider sponsoring needy students by paying part of their fees as they go through higher education. It was further recommended that the Student Representative Council and the Management of Halls of Residence in UCC can establish financial and food aid systems to cushion needy students.