The Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Professor Ahmed Jinapor, has stated that a crackdown on the abuse of academic titles in Ghana is crucial. According to Prof. Jinapor, this measure is necessary to protect the integrity of professorships and maintain public confidence in tertiary institutions.
Speaking at the 22nd Biennial Congress of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) in Aburi, Eastern Region, Prof. Jinapor emphasized that the misuse of titles, particularly honorary doctorates, undermines academic standards. He addressed UTAG members, stating, "This intervention is about protecting the value and prestige of the qualifications you have worked so hard to earn."
Prof. Jinapor highlighted the importance of collaboration among universities to achieve a significant national impact. He noted that GTEC was established under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023) to promote a unified and collaborative national system. He clarified that GTEC's regulatory role is not to stifle innovation but to strengthen the entire tertiary education sector by coordinating for quality, relevance, and integrity.
He also addressed the Payroll Audit & Streamlining of Office Holding Allowances, explaining that it is not merely an accounting exercise but an essential intervention to ensure fairness, accountability, and the efficient use of public resources. By eliminating duplications and ensuring transparency in remuneration, GTEC aims to build a sustainable financial foundation for public universities, freeing up resources for teaching, research, and infrastructure.
Prof. Jinapor assured that GTEC's actions are deliberate steps towards building a coherent and trustworthy education system in Ghana. The commission is committed to ensuring that academic titles are earned and respected, contributing to the overall quality of tertiary education in the country.