Drop your ‘Dr’ title if you can’t prove it — GTEC to Eric Oduro Osae

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has officially requested Eric Oduro Osae, the former Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency, to furnish documentary proof that substantiates his use of the academic title “Dr.”.

In a letter dated October 8, 2025, and signed by GTEC’s Director-General, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, the Commission requested Dr. Osae to provide evidence of a terminal degree, such as a PhD or EdD, conferred by a recognised and accredited academic institution, whether in Ghana or internationally.

This correspondence followed a prior discussion between Dr. Osae and a GTEC representative concerning his ongoing use of the title.

“For the avoidance of doubt, please be reminded that GTEC regards the unauthorized or inappropriate use of academic titles as a serious matter,” the letter stated.

“The use of titles such as ‘Dr.’ without formal academic validation from an accredited institution is considered misleading and is in violation of established academic protocols and standards”.

GTEC instructed Dr. Osae to provide the name of the institution that awarded his degree, a copy of his degree certificate, and his official academic transcript.

Furthermore, the Commission mandated that if he is unable to present the requested documentation, he must promptly cease using the title “Dr.” and remove it from all professional and public platforms, including official documents, institutional profiles, websites, and letterheads.

GTEC has granted Dr. Osae until October 17, 2025, to submit the necessary evidence or confirm the withdrawal of the title.

“The Commission expects your full cooperation in this matter. Kindly ensure that all requested documentation or confirmation of title withdrawal is submitted on or before October 17, 2025,” the letter concluded.

In recent months, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission has intensified its efforts to ensure adherence to academic and professional standards, cautioning that the misuse of honorary or unverified academic titles erodes public trust and the integrity of Ghana’s higher education system.