The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has written to Mr James Kofi Annan, National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Effutu in the 2024 elections, expressing concern over his continued use of the academic title “Dr,” and has demanded immediate clarification and supporting documentation to justify the title’s usage.

In a statement released on June 19, GTEC stated it had “taken note” of Mr Annan’s use of the title “Dr James Kofi Annan” in public and professional domains.

The Commission highlighted the importance of adhering to established academic standards in the conferment and public usage of academic titles in Ghana.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission wishes to formally express its concern regarding the use of academic titles that have not been duly earned or conferred through a recognised academic process,” the statement read.

“The use of such titles — particularly when lacking formal academic validation — is inconsistent with established academic protocols.”

GTEC called on Mr Annan to provide the following information without delay:

1. The name of the awarding institution;
2. Whether the doctoral degree is earned or honorary;
3. The date it was conferred; and
4. The process through which the degree was granted.

According to GTEC, failure to provide the requisite documentation, the Commission warned, would necessitate Mr Annan’s immediate cessation of the use of the “Dr” title.

He would also be required to furnish verifiable evidence that the title has been withdrawn from all relevant platforms, including:

• Official documents
• Institutional and professional profiles
• Websites
• Letterheads
• Any other public representations

“The Commission expects your full cooperation in addressing this matter and looks forward to your prompt compliance,” the letter concluded.

GTEC has, in recent times, raised concerns about the use of fake academic titles.

According to GTEC, the misuse of honorary titles contravenes the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023) and damages public confidence in the country’s educational system.

The Commission stressed that only accredited institutions are permitted to award honorary degrees, and recipients should not present them as academic qualifications.

James Kofi Annan is a Ghanaian anti-child slavery activist and the founder of Challenging Heights, an organisation dedicated to combating child trafficking and labour.

Before joining the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to become the parliamentary candidate for Effutu in the 2024 elections, he was a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) until he resigned in 2024.