UTAG Slams Fake Honorary Doctorates and Certificates in Ghana
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has denounced the growing trend of individuals using fake honorary doctorates and academic certificates from unaccredited institutions, warning that it threatens the credibility of Ghana’s higher education system.
In a June 2025 statement, UTAG criticized the misuse of titles like “Dr.” or “Professor” for personal gain, which undermines public trust in academia. The association backs the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which has banned unearned titles under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020, with threats of legal action.
Fake credentials often stem from unaccredited local and foreign institutions. UTAG calls for stricter regulations, transparent honorary degree policies, and public caution toward unverified titles. GTEC has targeted unaccredited study centers and individuals misrepresenting credentials.
Social media, particularly X, has amplified calls for prosecuting fake degree holders. Past exposés, like a 2016 report and recent cases such as Sansa Dalay’s retracted appointment, highlight the issue’s persistence. UTAG and GTEC aim to restore academic integrity through accountability and public awareness.