GTEC Issues Warning to Gomoa East MP Over Alleged Misuse of ‘Dr.’ Title

Commission Warns Mr. Paitoo to Stop Using “Doctor” Title in Official and Public Communications

In a formal notice, the Commission has requested that Mr. Paitoo cease using the title “Doctor” in all official documents and public communications. This directive comes following concerns regarding the legitimacy of his use of the academic title, which has drawn significant public and institutional attention. The Commission emphasized that failure to comply with this request could lead to regulatory actions, including legal sanctions as outlined by relevant laws and regulations.

According to the statement, the Commission is taking the matter seriously and is determined to uphold the integrity of academic and professional titles in Ghana. By continuing to refer to himself as “Dr.” without proper academic verification, Mr. Paitoo risks violating ethical and possibly legal standards set by national regulatory bodies.

This development has sparked a wider conversation around the use of honorary or unverified academic titles by public figures and professionals. It also follows similar instances in recent months where individuals have come under scrutiny for using the “Doctor” title without having a recognized PhD or doctoral degree from an accredited institution.

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The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), in particular, has been active in monitoring and addressing such cases. Earlier this year, GTEC issued a formal letter to NDC’s Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim, popularly known as “Tanko-Computer,” asking him to discontinue the use of the “Dr.” title until he could provide credible documentation proving he had earned a doctoral degree from a recognized academic institution. The letter followed public criticism and debate over the authenticity of his academic qualifications.

These incidents highlight the growing concern within educational and governmental institutions over the misuse of academic titles. In Ghana and elsewhere, the title “Doctor” carries not only academic prestige but also a certain level of public trust and professional authority. Misusing it can be seen as misleading the public and misrepresenting one’s qualifications.

The Commission reiterated that anyone wishing to use the title “Doctor” in official or public forums must have earned it through a verified academic process—typically by completing a doctoral program at an accredited institution and meeting all necessary academic standards. Individuals who violate this principle risk facing serious consequences, including professional sanctions, public correction, and potential legal repercussions.

This matter is a reminder to all professionals, especially public figures, to ensure transparency and accuracy in how they represent their credentials. While academic achievements are commendable, falsely presenting oneself with unearned titles undermines trust and can damage reputations.

As of now, Mr. Paitoo has not publicly responded to the Commission’s request. It remains to be seen whether he will comply with the directive or challenge it. However, the Commission has made it clear that any continued use of the “Doctor” title without proper credentials will not be tolerated and will be dealt with according to the law.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops, and follow us for more news on education, governance, and public accountability in Ghana.