The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has directed the Founder and Presidential Candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, to immediately cease using the academic title “Dr.” following his failure to provide evidence verifying the legitimacy of the designation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 15, the Commission stated that it had requested, on multiple occasions, documentation clarifying the basis for his use of the title. Specifically, GTEC sought information on whether the doctorate was earned or honorary, the name of the awarding institution, the date of conferment, and the process involved.
Hassan Ayariga
“To date, the Commission has not received any response from you. This continued silence is unacceptable,” the statement said.
According to the Commission, the use of unverified academic titles is misleading and undermines public confidence in Ghana’s academic system. It stressed that academic ranks must be awarded through formally recognised and rigorous processes consistent with national standards.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission hereby formally expresses its concern regarding the use of academic titles that have not been duly earned and conferred through a recognised academic process.
“The use of such titles, particularly when lacking formal academic validation, is misleading and inconsistent with the academic protocols and standards governing the conferment and use of academic ranks in Ghana,”GTEC stated.
As a result of the non-compliance, GTEC has ordered Mr. Ayariga to discontinue the use of the title “Dr.” and submit proof that it has been removed from all public and professional platforms. These include, but are not limited to:
- Official documents
- Institutional profiles
- Websites
- Letterheads
- Any other relevant representations
