The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has asked Ghana’s Presidential Envoy for Reparations, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, to provide proof that he is entitled to use the academic title “Dr.” or stop using it if he cannot establish its legitimacy.

In a statement released on Monday, July 27, 2026, the Commission said it had observed Mr. Spio-Garbrah being referred to publicly as “Amb. Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah,” prompting concerns over the authenticity of the title.

According to GTEC, the use of academic titles that have not been properly earned or conferred through recognised academic institutions undermines accepted academic standards and has the potential to mislead the public.

The Commission stressed that all academic titles used in Ghana should be supported by valid academic credentials and comply with the country’s regulations governing the award and recognition of qualifications.

To verify the basis of the title, GTEC has requested that Mr. Spio-Garbrah submit details of the doctorate, including the name of the awarding institution, whether the qualification is an earned doctorate or an honorary degree, the date it was conferred and the process through which it was awarded.

The Commission further indicated that if he is unable to provide satisfactory evidence, he must immediately discontinue the use of the title “Dr.” and confirm that it has been removed from all official and public platforms.

These include official correspondence, institutional profiles, websites, letterheads and any other professional or public records where the title appears.

GTEC directed Mr. Spio-Garbrah to comply with the request by July 31, 2026, expressing confidence that he would fully cooperate in resolving the matter.

See the full statement below: