GTEC is defending standards, not witch-hunting – Victoria Bright

Former Deputy Minister of State, Victoria Bright, has come to the defence of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) amid its ongoing dispute with Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah over the use of the academic title “Professor”.

Ms. Bright rejected claims that GTEC’s actions are politically motivated or constitute a witch hunt.

“What GTEC is doing is not unfair or illegal. It’s simple if you have the credentials, show them. This isn’t about persecution; it’s about accountability,” she said.

GTEC’s Director-General, Prof. Ahmed Abdulai Jinapor, recently dismissed a legal ultimatum from Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s legal team, arguing that her claim to the title lacks evidence and consistency.

She emphasised that the issue goes beyond personal pride, warning that undermining the integrity of academic titles threatens the credibility of Ghana’s education system.

“This is about protecting the integrity of our institutions and our international reputation. Allowing unverified titles only erodes trust and standards,” she stated.

Drawing attention to the broader risks, she referenced past incidents involving fake doctors and unqualified teachers, stressing the danger of tolerating false credentials.

“Unqualified individuals in critical roles can destroy lives. We must stop normalizing mediocrity and attacking institutions that enforce standards,” she warned.

Ms. Bright called for a cultural shift, urging Ghanaians to respect earned titles and hold individuals accountable.

“If you’re not a doctor, a lawyer, or a professor, don’t claim to be one. If you want the title, go through the process and earn it. It’s that simple.”