GTEC directs two MPs and Kwame Adom-Frimpong of Internal Audit Agency to stopp using unearned 'Prof', ‘Dr’ titles

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has directed two Members of Parliament—Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor (Awutu Senya East) and Desmond De-Graft Paitoo (Gomoa East), to stop using the title “Doctor” in public and official communications, citing lack of academic justification.

In letters dated June 3 and June 16, GTEC stated that such titles, if honorary or unverified, violate the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023). Both MPs have been asked to provide evidence of the title’s legitimacy or face sanctions.

Naa Koryoo, who also serves on the NPA Board, has been asked to confirm that the “Dr” title has been removed from all official platforms. Paitoo must clarify whether his title is earned or honorary, and submit proof of its conferment.

GTEC also wrote to Kwame Adom-Frimpong of the Internal Audit Agency, demanding evidence of his appointment as “Professor.” If none is provided, he must cease using the title and remove it from all institutional platforms.

The Commission is intensifying efforts to stop the misuse of unearned academic titles, warning that honorary degrees do not carry the same academic weight as earned ones and should not be used as formal credentials.