Ghana Cracks Down on Misuse of Honorary Doctoral Titles, Professional Credentials

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has warned individuals using honorary doctoral and professorial titles in public, deeming the practice deceitful and unethical.

The commission has threatened to take legal action against those who fail to comply with the directive.

The GTEC’s final caution targets politicians, business leaders, religious figures, and others who have been using honorary titles without actual academic credentials.

The commission argues that this practice dilutes the integrity of the higher education system and undermines the value of genuine doctoral education.

From now on, individuals in Ghana who have not earned a PhD from a recognized university will not be allowed to use the title of “Dr.” in public. The GTEC’s move aims to protect the credibility of Ghana’s education system and ensure that academic titles are used responsibly.

The commission’s decision has sparked a national conversation about the importance of academic integrity and the need for authenticity in public life.

As the GTEC begins to enforce its directive, it remains to be seen how this new policy will impact the country’s cultural and social landscape.