Member of Parliament for Gomoa East, Desmond De-Graft Paitoo, has accused the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) of engaging in what he describes as a politically motivated campaign to discredit members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over alleged misuse of academic titles.
His comments follow a formal letter from GTEC requesting clarification on whether the “Dr” title attributed to him was earned, honorary, or self-conferred — including the name of the awarding institution and the date of conferment.
“I wonder why GTEC is targeting the NDC members and who is influencing them to do that,” Mr. Paitoo told Channel One TV on Friday, June 20, 2025.
“If you want to invite me for questioning, write a letter to me personally. I have handed over the case to my lawyer, so I will speak once he responds.”
Not an earned doctorate, never used officially
Mr Paitoo clarified that he has never used the “Dr” prefix in any official capacity and that the honorary recognition he received was never intended to replace a formal academic qualification.
“I didn’t earn anything on my own; I was honoured for the work that I have done. It is not an academically earned title. Even on my website, I haven’t put anything there,” he explained.
The MP expressed concern about the timing and tone of GTEC’s approach, suggesting it is part of a broader political agenda rather than a neutral regulatory exercise.
GTEC has been tightening its oversight on the unauthorised use of honorary or fraudulent academic titles, particularly by public figures. The Commission’s actions come amid growing public concern over misleading academic claims in politics and governance.
While Mr Paitoo says he will respond formally through his legal team, the matter continues to stir debate over transparency, regulation, and political neutrality in Ghana’s academic and political spheres.
Read More: GTEC Issues Final Warning Against Misuse of Honorary Doctorate and Professorship Titles