With just over 500 high schools in Ghana, individuals complete their high school education without realizing their dream of pursuing a university education. This may be due to poverty, a lack of access to opportunities or a lack of money to pay for the application fee or tuition. Based on the high volume of students applying for university education, the existing schools deny thousands of students the opportunity to pursue a higher education. Unfortunately, many are well qualified, would thrive in an institution of higher education and would be an asset to Ghana.

Thousands of individuals are left to determine their own destiny. Many attend Teacher Training Colleges and Polytechnic Institutions, which are certificate programs. Others end up living a life of poverty often unable to fulfill their basic needs. This life can lead to many social problems including a life of crime and dependence on drugs and alcohol, prostitution and, in turn, disease.

Education assists in the alleviation of poverty. Education allows individuals the opportunity to develop human capacity and develop human capital. Education leads to employment opportunities for individuals to support themselves, their families, and in turn, impact their community. The development of scholarship opportunities, access to on-line degree programs and an additional university encourages and supports economic growth by providing employment and educational opportunities and education and training in entrepreneurship, leadership, business and/or non-profit development. Those educated bring knowledge to others regarding the benefits of an education. Education empowers individuals and gives them the tools to make healthy and positive choices in their life and in their families lives.

Once enrolled in a current university in Ghana, students lack adequate resources. Students often end up sleeping in crowded rooms or on porches and attend lectures often without a place to sit. In addition, the university libraries are overcrowded and have limited space for students to comfortably sit and have an effective study session. This is especially concerning during exam times. Books are limited, can be difficult to buy and are expensive. This atmosphere is not conducive to productive study habits and can hinder intellectual capabilities.

The largest university in Ghana today, the University of Ghana, has approximately 30,000 students, which includes both bachelor level and graduate level students. Because of the low professor to high student ratio and large class size, students often complete their classes without having the ability to meet with their professors to discuss any difficulties facing them within their classes or individual degree programs. Students are left to their own devices to learn and comprehend the given material.

Furthermore, a lack of financial aid and financial support while in school, poses other problems. Students are often forced to make choices between buying food and paying tuition. There is often an uncertainty as to sustaining monetary resources, which can cause a lot of stress to individuals and their families and can also contribute to a lack of performance. As a result, individuals may be forced to leave the university altogether. Some government assistance can be granted for those who qualify.