Desist from using Professor, Doctor without academic basis-GTEC

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of individuals adopting honorary academic titles such as “Doctor” and “Professor” as part of their names, despite not having earned these qualifications through formal academic processes.

According to a statement released by the Commission, this growing practice—often involving awards from both local and international institutions—poses a threat to the credibility of Ghana’s higher education system. 

GTEC emphasized that while honorary degrees are intended to recognize exceptional contributions to society, they do not equate to earned academic credentials and should not be used as formal titles.

“The use of such titles without academic merit is misleading and unethical,” the Commission stated. “It violates the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), and undermines the authenticity of genuine academic achievements.”

GTEC stressed that only accredited institutions within the country’s higher education framework should be allowed to confer honorary degrees, and even then, recipients must not incorporate these titles into their professional identities.

The Commission further clarified that misrepresenting oneself through the use of honorary designations could confuse students, academics, and the public, while also devaluing the rigorous work required to obtain legitimate academic distinctions.

Under Section 8 (3)(d) of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, GTEC is legally empowered to regulate the usage of academic titles and terminology. The Commission has therefore cautioned individuals and institutions to adhere strictly to the law, warning that it may take regulatory action, including imposing sanctions, against those found in breach of these rules.

GTEC concluded by calling on all stakeholders to help uphold the integrity of Ghana’s academic landscape, stating: “The continued misuse of honorary titles compromises public confidence in our educational system and disrespects the efforts of those who have legitimately earned their academic qualifications.”