The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has instructed Ghana’s Presidential Envoy for Reparations, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, to provide proof supporting his use of the academic title “Dr.” or discontinue using it if he cannot demonstrate that it was legitimately conferred.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 27, 2026, GTEC said it had observed the use of the title, particularly in references identifying him as “Amb. Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah.”
According to the Commission, the use of academic titles that have not been earned or awarded through a recognised academic process raises concerns and has the potential to mislead the public.
GTEC stressed that academic titles must be supported by proper academic credentials and used in line with established regulations governing the award and recognition of academic qualifications in Ghana.
To establish the facts, the Commission has asked Mr. Spio-Garbrah to submit documentation explaining the basis for his use of the title “Dr.”
The information requested includes the name of the institution that conferred the doctorate, whether it is an earned doctoral degree or an honorary doctorate, the date it was awarded, and the process through which it was conferred.
GTEC said that if Spio-Garbrah is unable to provide the requested documentation, he will be required to immediately stop using the title “Dr.” and submit proof that it has been removed from all platforms where it is currently displayed.
These include official documents, institutional profiles, websites, letterheads, and any other public or professional representations.
The Commission has given Spio-Garbrah until July 31, 2026, to comply with the directive, adding that it expects his full cooperation in resolving the issue.
