Just when many thought COVID-19 had become a thing of the past, the University of Ghana has issued a fresh warning, saying; “the virus is back on campus.”
According to a notice released by the University’s Health Services Directorate on June 23, a number of confirmed and suspected cases have been recorded, prompting a quick return to safety protocols.
In the advisory, the University is urging students, staff, and visitors to mask up again, wash hands frequently, keep their distance, avoid crowds, and report any flu-like symptoms early. They’ve also brought back screening and triage points at the health centers to monitor the situation.
But beyond the campus gates, the impact is already being felt.
Business Takes a Hit Again
For vendors and small businesses around Legon, it’s déjà vu.
“We’ve just started recovering,” says Serwaa, who sells waakye near the Okponglo gate. “If students stop coming around, we’re back to square one.”
Others echo the same concern. Photocopy shops, student hostels, ride-hailing drivers, and even printing presses rely heavily on campus activity.
Further, events and meetings are also being rescheduled. One lecturer mentioned moving a planned seminar online.
For catering services, decorators, and other vendors who serve these gatherings, that’s money lost before the semester even ends.
A Reminder of the Fragility of Informal Economies
The Legon campus is not just an academic space; it’s an economic hub. Thousands of businesses, formal and informal, feed off its daily activity.
This sudden resurgence of COVID-19 is a reminder of how vulnerable these small operators are. A few health advisories, and the ripple effects begin.
Unlike larger companies that can pivot to remote work or e-commerce, many campus-based businesses rely on in-person customers.
“You can’t Zoom your way to buying kelewele,” said a student half-jokingly, but the reality is serious.
What is Next?
So far, there has been no mention of campus closure or moving classes online. But with the virus back in circulation, things could change quickly.
The Health Services Directorate says it’s watching the situation closely and will provide updates.
Meanwhile, businesses are being forced to adapt again. Some food vendors are returning to takeaway-only models, and hostel managers are restricting non-resident access. The masks are coming back, so are the hand sanitizers.
Let us Not Forget the Lessons
If there is one thing this latest development should teach us, it’s that COVID-19 never completely left. And neither should our caution.
For businesses, especially, this is a call to rethink how to stay afloat in unpredictable times. Having a plan B might just be the difference between survival and shutdown.
For now, all eyes are on how the University contains this resurgence and how the community around it weathers yet another storm.
