Prove use of ‘Dr.’ title or stop using it - GTEC to Spio-Garbrah

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a directive to Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Ghana's Presidential Envoy for Reparations, demanding he substantiate his use of the academic title "Dr." or discontinue its public application. GTEC's letter, dated July 27, 2026, specifically addresses Spio-Garbrah's self-description as "Amb. Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah."

The commission expressed significant concern regarding the public use of academic titles that have not been formally earned or conferred through recognized academic processes. GTEC stated that such practices can be misleading and are inconsistent with the established academic protocols and standards governing the conferment and use of academic ranks within Ghana.

To resolve the issue, GTEC has requested Spio-Garbrah to provide detailed clarification. This includes specifying the institution that awarded the doctorate, whether the degree is earned or honorary, the date of conferral, and the exact process through which it was granted. The letter was formally sent to his office at the Castle, Osu, in Accra.

Should Spio-Garbrah be unable to furnish the required documentation, GTEC has instructed him to immediately cease using the title "Dr." Furthermore, he is directed to ensure that the title has been removed from all official documents, institutional profiles, websites, letterheads, and any other public or professional platforms where it may appear. GTEC has set a strict deadline of July 31, 2026, for Spio-Garbrah to submit the requested information.

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The use of such titles, particularly when lacking formal academic validation, can be misleading and is inconsistent with established academic protocols and standards governing the conferment and use of academic ranks in Ghana.