The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has instructed the founder and presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, to immediately stop using the academic title “Dr”.
This warning comes after Mr. Ayariga failed to provide evidence verifying the legitimacy of the designation.
GTEC, in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, indicated that it had requested, on multiple occasions, documentation clarifying the basis for the use of the title.
The Commission requested to know whether his doctorate was earned or honorary, the name of the awarding institution, the date of conferment, and the process involved.
“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.
The Commission added 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, and any other relevant representations.
The Commission further set July 31, 2025, as the deadline for full compliance or to face legal repercussions.
Find the full statement below.
