The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has directed the Medical Superintendent of the Wa Municipal Hospital in the Upper West Region, Bukari Zakari, to provide documentary evidence to justify his use of the academic title “Dr.”

In a letter addressed to Zakari, GTEC stated that a review of his academic records suggested he may have obtained a PhD from the Atlantic International University (AIU) in the United States, an institution that is not accredited by any recognised authority in its home country.

“Please be informed that Atlantic International University is not accredited by a recognised accrediting body or legal authority in its home country, the United States of America. Consequently, any academic qualification awarded by AIU is not recognised by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission,” the letter read.

GTEC has therefore requested that Zakari submit the following documents for verification: the full name of the awarding institution, a copy of the relevant degree certificate, and a copy of the official academic transcript.

The Commission further warned that failure to provide the required documentation would compel him to cease using the title “Dr.” in all official and professional contexts, including letterheads, websites, institutional profiles, and other public materials.

The directive, signed by Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, Director-General of GTEC, has also been copied to the Ministry of Health, through its Chief Director, for enforcement action.

GTEC instructed that all documents or confirmation of title withdrawal must be submitted no later than 24 October 2025, stressing that the matter should be treated with “utmost urgency and importance.”

The move forms part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to verify academic and professional titles used in public institutions and to ensure that all qualifications reflect authentic and accredited academic achievements.

Source: Asaase Radio