The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has officially instructed political leader Hassan Ayariga to immediately discontinue the use of the honorific “Dr.” due to the absence of credible documentation validating the authenticity of his claimed doctoral qualification.
In a statement dated July 14, 2025, GTEC highlighted Ayariga’s failure to respond to multiple requests for clarification regarding the source and legitimacy of his doctoral title.
The Commission had sought comprehensive details including; The name of the institution that awarded the degree, Whether the doctorate was earned through academic achievement or bestowed as an honorary degree, The date on which the title was conferred, and A description of the academic process followed in obtaining the degree.
Despite these inquiries, GTEC noted that Ayariga has not provided any information.
The Commission described this ongoing non-compliance as “unacceptable” and cautioned that the unauthorized assumption of academic titles undermines established academic standards and protocols in Ghana.
The directive requires Ayariga to remove the “Dr.” designation from all official materials including documents, websites, and letterheads by July 31, 2025. Failure to comply will result in legal consequences.
The letter, signed by Professor Augustine Ocloo, Deputy Director-General acting on behalf of the Director-General, reaffirmed GTEC’s dedication to preserving the integrity of academic credentials.
