Assemblies of God (AG), Ghana, has directed all its ministers to desist from using honorary academic titles such as “Dr,” in line with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission’s (GTEC) regulations, which do not recognise such distinctions as earned qualifications.
The circular explained that pastors who had received honorary doctorates from accredited or non-accredited institutions must refrain from appending the title to their names.
It further urged ministers with legitimately earned academic degrees, including PhDs, to submit their certificates to GTEC for verification if they wished for such qualifications to be officially recognised by the church.
The church warned that any minister who violated the directive or came into conflict with GTEC rules would face suspension.
Rev. Birikorang, who issued the circular, encouraged pastors to emulate the example of the General Superintendent, Rev. Stephen Wengam, who last year ceased using the title “Dr” despite being conferred with an honorary doctorate.
He said compliance would not only safeguard the credibility of the ministry but also show respect for Ghana’s education regulatory framework.
This move follows the stern warnings by GTEC over the misuse of academic titles. In April, the commission raised alarm over the growing trend of individuals parading as “Dr” or “Prof.” on the basis of honorary awards, stressing that while such awards are legitimate, they are symbolic and do not confer academic or professional status.
Citing the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), GTEC reminded the public that offenders risk fines of up to 250 penalty units, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
