Students call for tighter security at UG exam centres

Some students of the University of Ghana (UG) have raised concerns over insecurity and the lack of lockers at examination centres on the university’s main campus.

The concerns follow reported thefts at the N Block lecture hall. On Sunday, March 7, 2026, six phones were allegedly stolen after an interim assessment. A similar incident occurred on Saturday, March 14, when two phones and a bag were reported missing at the same venue, sparking outrage among students.

Speaking to Univers News, students called on the university to provide designated storage spaces where they can safely keep their belongings before entering examination halls.

“The University should make provisions for students to keep their belongings when they are going to write a paper,” one student said.

Another student noted that security personnel must ensure the safety of items left in their care, especially for non-resident students who often arrive on campus early to study.

“Non-resident students come to campus before exams and have nowhere to keep their phones, so security personnel should ensure everything is kept safe,” the student said.

Others proposed the installation of lockers and enhanced security around examination venues to prevent further incidents.

“I think lockers should be installed around exam halls so students can store their items safely. Non-resident students should also benefit from these facilities,” another student suggested.

Responding to the concerns, the Deputy Head of the Safety and Security Directorate, Major Thomas Tierzagl, said officers are reviewing surveillance footage from cameras at the entrance of the hall as part of ongoing investigations.

He acknowledged that the university’s examination policy—which prohibits students from bringing bags, phones, and similar items near exam halls—poses challenges.

“If the policy, whether introduced one year or ten years ago, is no longer effective, then we must review it,” he stated.

The incidents have triggered broader discussions among students about the urgent need to strengthen security measures at examination centres.