The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), together with its allied trade organizations, have expressed deep concern over the caution issued by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, regarding his use of an honorary doctorate title.
This is contained in a press release dated May 19.
“We find this action to be an overreach of authority – an unwarranted, malicious attempt calculated to cast aspersions on the person and the dignity of a leader whose dedication, vision, and advocacy have been pivotal in transforming the economic narratives of our country.
This development is not only unjustified, but it is also viewed by the trading community as a deliberate slight against a man who has tirelessly championed Ghana’s informal sector and uplifted the nation’s entrepreneurial base,” GUTA stated.
In the statement GTEC statement under reference, the education sector regulatory body said, “The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission has noted your continuous use of the title ‘doctor’, i.e., Dr. Joseph Obeng. The Commission would like to know the process, the time. and which institution awarded you the doctorate title,” part of a letter dated May 14 Dr Obeng and signed by the Deputy Director-General of GTEC, Prof Augustine Ocloo, reads.
In response, GUTA said, “Dr. Obeng’s honorary title is not ornamental – it is a well-earned recognition of his decades of service to national development, private enterprise advocacy, and economic empowerment. Documented Recognitions and Awards
- Honorary Doctorate of Humanity (D.H.)
Conferred by Alpha International Theological Seminary (A.I.T.S.) – 24th April 2016
Citation: “For your contribution to human development and private enterprise, the seminary hereby honours you with an Honorary Doctor of Humanity, Honoris Causa.” - Platinum Award for Excellence in Leadership
Presented by the Centre for Transformational Leadership, Accra – 24th April 2016
This award recognized Dr. Obeng’s outstanding leadership in private business and national development and affirms his role as a global voice for prosperity, human progress, and freedom.
These are not vanity accolades; they are meritorious honors granted by reputable institutions, recognizing proven leadership and measurable impact on national progress,” GUTA stressed.
“We request that GTEC retract its misplaced press release and issue a public apology to Dr. Joseph Obeng for the unwarranted reputational harm caused.
- We affirm that Dr. Obeng’s leadership and advocacy transcend academic credentials. His contributions are felt in markets, boardrooms, and national policy discussions.
- We assert that the trading community will not countenance any further attempt to denigrate the dignity of our leader or any of our leadership. The informal sector demands and deserves respect.
They urged the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission to:
- Exercise discretion and professionalism when addressing matters involving respected national personalities.
- Engage relevant stakeholders—including civil society, trade unions, and private sector leaders—before issuing public statements that risk damaging reputations.
- Recognize diverse pathways to leadership and excellence, especially those born from economic transformation and grassroots advocacy rather than solely academic credentials.
“We stand firmly and unapologetically with Dr. Obeng—not only in defense of his right to be honored, but in protection of all who serve Ghana through integrity, sacrifice, and results-driven leadership. GUTA therefore, strongly condemns the malicious attempt by GTEC to discredit Dr. Joseph Obeng’s honorary doctorate usage in no uncertain terms,” they stressed.
Read also: GTEC urges GUTA President to justify use of ‘Dr’ title or stop using it
