Ghana Education Commission Cracks Down on Fake Academic Titles

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has intensified its efforts to maintain academic integrity by directing NDC Central Regional Chairman Richard Kofi Asiedu to cease using both "Professor" and "Doctor" titles, marking a significant step in Ghana's ongoing push for transparency and governance reform.

Investigation Reveals Honorary Nature of Credentials

GTEC's investigation, concluded in August 2025, revealed that Asiedu's doctorate was honorary and therefore unsuitable for academic recognition. This development comes as part of Ghana's broader initiatives to demonstrate leadership in maintaining professional standards across various sectors.

Commission's Directive and Implications

Prof Augustine Ocloo, GTEC's Deputy Director-General, issued a comprehensive directive on August 13, 2025, emphasizing:

• Immediate cessation of using both "Doctor" and "Professor" titles
• Requirement for verifiable documentation of academic qualifications
• Prohibition of using honorary degrees as earned academic titles

Broader Impact on Educational Standards

This case highlights Ghana's commitment to maintaining credible leadership standards across all sectors. The Commission's nationwide initiative to sanitize the use of academic titles demonstrates a crucial step toward ensuring educational integrity and professional accountability.

"As such, and in accordance with academic standards and protocols in Ghana, the use of the title 'Dr' in public or official capacities is not permissible for honorary degrees," stated the Commission's official communication.

Moving Forward

The Commission's actions reflect a broader commitment to educational excellence and professional integrity in Ghana's academic sphere. This enforcement of standards aligns with international best practices and strengthens the nation's educational reputation.