The Office of the Rent Commissioner and the Rent Control Department have directed all private hostel owners, facility managers, operators, and stakeholders within the student accommodation sector to place a temporary hold on all or any intended or proposed increment in hostel accommodation fees for the 2026/2027 academic year until further notice.

The two state agencies also convened a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the current development within the student accommodation sector and to collectively deliberate on sustainable, fair, and lawful measures regarding hostel pricing and standards.

The meeting will also provide an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss concerns relating to hostel fee increments, review compliance with existing rent regulations and consumer protection provisions, explore practical solutions to ensure affordability and fairness to promote transparency and accountability within the student hostel accommodation.

The Rent Commissioner’s Office and the Department said the action followed recent continuous hikes in hostel accommodation fees across private hostels within and around tertiary institutions in the country.

The Office of the Rent Commissioner and the Rent Control Department explained that “The situation, if not properly regulated and managed, may adversely affect access to accommodation and the general welfare of students pursuing higher education.”