The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has asked Presidential Special Envoy for Reparations, Ambassador Ekow Spio-Garbrah, to justify his use of the academic title "Dr".

In a letter dated July 27, 2026, GTEC said it had "taken note of your use of the academic title 'Dr.', specifically in reference to yourself as Amb. Dr. Ekow Spio-Garbrah."

The Commission said it wished "to formally express its concern regarding the use of academic titles that have not been duly earned or conferred through a recognized academic process."

It added that "the use of such titles — particularly when lacking formal academic validation — can be misleading and is inconsistent with established academic protocols and standards governing the conferment and use of academic ranks in Ghana."

GTEC requested that Spio-Garbrah provide clarification on "the name of the awarding institution", whether the doctorate was earned or honorary, the date it was conferred, and the process through which it was awarded.

The Commission warned that if he is unable to provide the required documentation, he would be expected "without delay to respectfully cease the use of the title 'Dr.'"

It further directed him to provide "verifiable evidence that this title has been withdrawn from all relevant platforms," including official documents, institutional profiles, websites, letterheads and other public or professional representations.

GTEC said it expected his "full cooperation in addressing this matter" and asked him to comply by July 31, 2026.