The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has raised concerns over the legitimacy of Gomoa East Member of Parliament(MP), Desmond Paitoo’s continued use of the academic title “Doctor” (Dr.).
GTEC has lamented the growing trend of individuals using honorary doctorates as academic or professional titles, despite lacking the formal academic standing of an earned doctoral degree.
In an official letter to the lawmaker, the Commission has therefore asked Mr. Paitoo to clarify his use of the title.
GTEC is seeking clarity regarding the awarding institution, whether the degree was honorary or earned, and the process through which the title was conferred.
The letter emphasised that the unauthorised use of honorary titles is considered unethical and violates provisions of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023) governing higher education in Ghana.
The Commission has formally requested that Mr. Paitoo refrain from using the “Doctor” title in all official and public communications, warning that non-compliance may trigger regulatory actions, including possible sanctions as prescribed by law.
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