GUTA Condemns GTEC’s Directive Against Dr Obeng’s Honorary Title
The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has strongly criticized the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for cautioning its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, against using his honorary doctorate title.
GTEC, in a letter dated Wednesday, May 14, 2025, had raised concerns over Dr. Obeng’s continued use of the title “Doctor” in public. The Commission requested information regarding the awarding institution, the conferral process, and the date of the honorary degree.
It argued that the use of honorary doctorates as formal titles is unethical and contravenes the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), along with other relevant education regulations. GTEC further warned that failure to comply could result in sanctions under its mandate.
In a press statement issued on Monday, May 19, GUTA described GTEC’s action as a “malicious attempt” to tarnish Dr. Obeng’s reputation, asserting that the honorary title was a legitimate acknowledgment of his contributions to Ghana’s economic development and private sector advocacy.
GUTA defended the title, stating that Dr. Obeng’s honorary doctorate, awarded by Alpha International Theological Seminary in 2016, was a genuine recognition of his leadership and public service.
The association also pointed to his Platinum Award for Excellence in Leadership, presented by the Centre for Transformational Leadership that same year, as further validation of his accomplishments.
The union called on GTEC to withdraw the cautionary letter and issue a public apology, stressing that members of the informal sector also deserve national respect and recognition.
“We affirm that Dr. Obeng’s leadership and advocacy transcend academic credentials. His contributions are felt in markets, boardrooms, and national policy discussions,” GUTA stated.
The association urged GTEC to act with greater discretion when dealing with respected public figures and to consult relevant stakeholders before issuing statements that could damage reputations.
Read GUTA’s full statement below
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, 19th May 2025
GUTA STRONGLY CONDEMNS GTEC’S MALICIOUS ATTEMPT TO DISCREDIT DR. JOSEPH OBENG’S HONORARY DOCTORATE TITLE USAGE
Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), together with its allied trade organizations, expresses deep concern and outright condemnation of the caution issued by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA, regarding his use of an honorary doctorate title.
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.
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.
Our Position
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.
Our Call to GTEC
We respectfully urge 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.
Standing in Solidarity
Dr. Joseph Obeng is not merely a representative of traders; he is a symbol of resilience, service, and visionary leadership in Ghana’s economic landscape. His work has restored dignity to thousands of traders and entrepreneurs across the country.
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.
SIGNED:
All Sector Leaders
Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA)
