GTEC Warns Deputy Health Minister to Stop Using 'Professor' Title or Face Legal Action
Accra, Ghana - August 17, 2025 - The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has written to the Chief of Staff, urging them to direct Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, to cease using the title "Professor" as she doesn't hold the academic title in any capacity. According to GTEC, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah's appointment by the University of Utah as an Adjunct Assistant Professor doesn't qualify her to use the title "Professor" in Ghana's academic framework.
GTEC initiated an investigation into Dr. Ayensu-Danquah's use of the title after which it requested her to provide documentary evidence of her professorial appointment by August 11, 2025. In response, her solicitors submitted a letter from the University of Utah, signed by Prof. W. Bradford Rockwell, Vice Chair for Academic Affairs of the Department of Surgery, stating that Dr. Ayensu-Danquah was appointed as an Adjunct Assistant Professor.
The Commission in their directive highlighted key points, including Dr. Ayensu-Danquah's solicitors claimed she was appointed as an Assistant Professor, but the University of Utah's letter indicated she was appointed as an Adjunct Assistant Professor, a non-tenure track position equivalent to a part-time lecturer in Ghana's academic framework.
GTEC argues that omitting the term "Adjunct" from her title could mislead the public about her academic credentials.
The Commission emphasizes the importance of maintaining academic integrity and upholding the standards of Ghana's higher education system.
If Dr. Ayensu-Danquah continues to use the title "Professor," GTEC may pursue legal action on grounds of public deception. The Commission has the authority to regulate the use of academic titles and terminology in Ghana's tertiary education system.
As the regulatory body for tertiary education in Ghana, GTEC's mandate includes ensuring that academic titles are used appropriately and that institutions comply with established standards. The Commission has been actively addressing the misuse of academic titles, including honorary doctorates and professorships, and has warned that it will name and shame individuals who flout its directives.
Source - Lead News Online/Jeff Ago
