The Director General of Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, Prof. Abdulai Jinapor has reiterated the abuse and misuse of honorary titles urging the public to desist from it.
Delivering a keynote address as Guest of Honour at a ceremony honoring Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohunu during a graduation ceremony of the Accra Metropolitan University, on July 19, 2025, Abdulai acknowledged the police chief’s dedication to Ghana, drawing a personal connection by referencing his own father’s legacy in the force.
While celebrating Yohunu’s contribution, Professor Abdulai seized the moment to raise critical concerns about the misuse of academic titles in the country.
The caution comes amid increasing awareness about individuals claiming unearned titles such as “Doctor” and “Professor.”
According to Professor Abdulai Jinapor, such titles must be earned through rigorous academic pursuit not merely awarded as honorary distinctions.
“Titles like ‘Professor’ aren’t conferred. They are academic ranks achieved through years of research, teaching, and service,” said Prof. Jinapor. “A person must meet strict criteria and be promoted through the ranks.”
He likened the academic journey to the structured promotion system within the Ghana Police Service, where officers climb from Constable to Commissioner of Police (COP) through accumulated experience and merit.
Citing Section 8 of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), Prof. Jinapor affirmed GTEC’s mandate to regulate the use of academic nomenclature in Ghana. The Act gives the Commission authority over titles including “University,” “College,” “Professor,” “Doctor,” and “Chartered.”
The address also included a rousing message to the graduating class of the Accra Metropolitan University, urging them to uphold integrity and embrace their role as agents of transformation.
“Graduates of 2025, you leave here empowered to lead and equipped to transform,” he declared.
The message calls for national pride and academic honesty, framing education not as a status symbol but as a pursuit of truth and excellence.
