The Ghanaian government has officially banned the public use of honorary academic titles such as “Dr.” and “Professor,” in a bold move to combat the misuse of credentials and protect the integrity of the country’s education system.
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The announcement was made in a statement signed by Augustine Ocloo, Acting Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
According to Ocloo, individuals—particularly public figures such as politicians, business leaders, and religious personalities—have been increasingly abusing honorary degrees and titles to gain undue respect and influence.
“The use of unearned titles such as ‘Dr.’ or ‘Professor’ has become unethical and misleading,” Ocloo stated. “It damages public trust and tarnishes the image of legitimate academic institutions.”
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The commission emphasized that honorary degrees do not carry academic authority and are merely symbolic. Therefore, those who have not undergone formal academic processes will no longer be allowed to use such titles in public documents or events.
This policy shift comes amid growing global concern over academic fraud, with Ghana seeking to set a precedent in West Africa. The country has witnessed an increase in fake degrees and forged certificates being used for social and political gain.
Ocloo reaffirmed GTEC’s commitment to upholding academic standards and restoring confidence in Ghana's higher education system. The commission has also promised further investigations into institutions that routinely offer honorary degrees without regulatory approval.
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The move has sparked online debates, with some applauding Ghana’s educational leadership, while others call for similar action across Africa—especially in countries where honorary titles are routinely abused by celebrities and politicians for vanity or influence.
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Academic Fraud
Education Policy
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Government Regulation
Honorary Degrees
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