The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has stepped up enforcement of academic title regulations, issuing a firm directive to Awutu Senya East Member of Parliament, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, to immediately stop using the title “Doctor.”
The move comes in response to growing scrutiny from education stakeholders and members of the public over the authenticity of academic credentials claimed by some public figures. In Ms. Okunor’s case, GTEC determined that she does not hold a recognized doctoral qualification from an accredited institution, thereby rendering her use of the title inappropriate.
In a formal letter addressed to the legislator, the Commission reminded all public officials that academic designations must be earned through rigorous and verifiable educational processes. GTEC said the directive is part of its broader mandate to safeguard the credibility of Ghana’s higher education landscape and ensure that academic titles are not diluted by misuse.
“This is not just about one individual. It’s about protecting the integrity of Ghana’s education system,” a GTEC official noted off-record. “When public figures adopt unearned titles, it undermines the achievements of those who have fulfilled the academic requirements.”
Although GTEC did not disclose how the issue came to their attention, sources suggest that mounting complaints from academia triggered a review. The Commission also used the opportunity to caution all individuals in leadership positions to respect ethical standards and avoid misleading the public.
As of press time, Ms. Okunor had not commented on the directive. The development has reignited conversations about academic transparency and the need for stricter vetting of qualifications among Ghana’s political and public leadership.
