In a statement addressed to GTEC’s Director-General, Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, PNP Chairperson Janet Nabla called for a rigorous verification of academic credentials — including diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, and PhDs — particularly those obtained from foreign universities, where oversight may be limited.

The party expressed growing alarm over what it described as a surge in fraudulent academic qualifications infiltrating public institutions. It warned that this trend poses a serious threat to the credibility of Ghana’s education system and undermines public trust in governance.

“The widespread use of fake certificates not only undermines the integrity of our educational system but also erodes public confidence in our institutions,” the petition stated.

To promote transparency, the PNP proposed the creation of a centralised, publicly accessible database of verified qualifications from accredited institutions, akin to global practices seen with databases like WES Degree Equivalency Tool.

This database, the PNP believes, would empower both public and private sector employers to verify credentials prior to recruitment or appointment, helping to eliminate fake degrees from the system.

Also Read: ‘Cedi no apicki, but Abochi get the Dollar’ – Minority Fires Back on Forex Claims

The PNP also recommended a sustainable funding model — the introduction of a “GTEC Monitoring and Evaluation Fee”, a mandatory charge for all tertiary-level students, to support continuous nationwide verification efforts.

“A country that fails to scrutinise the educational background of its leaders and workforce is bound to face persistent economic and governance challenges,” the party said. “Individuals who rely on fake certifications lack integrity, and no nation can progress on the back of deceit.”

The PNP’s petition comes amid recent GTEC directives ordering several public figures to cease using academic titles such as “Dr” or “Prof” without verified credentials. Notable individuals affected include:

• Rashid Tanko-Computer, CEO of GIFEC

• Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA

• Desmond De-Graft Paitoo, Member of Parliament for Gomoa East

The PNP insists this issue must be addressed urgently to restore integrity in Ghana’s educational and political leadership.

source: citinewsroom

The Coalition’s concern follows a statement by Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, Chairman of Parliament’s Education Committee, who in a July 15 interview revealed that Parliament plans to pass the Bill by the end of this week. He noted that the legislation is critical for reforming Ghana’s scholarship system and enhancing institutional oversight.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Coalition applauded the government’s commitment to strengthening the legal and institutional framework for managing scholarships. However, they raised strong concerns over the rushed approach, stating that there is no compelling emergency to justify bypassing standard legislative procedures.

“The need for reform is undeniable,” the Coalition said. “Yet the Bill in its current form does not adequately address the structural weaknesses of the existing scholarships regime. Rather than correcting the opacity, nepotism, and political interference, it risks institutionalising them.”

The Coalition argued that the proposed law lacks mechanisms for transparency and accountability and does not offer a merit-based system that aligns with international best practices.

Also Read: OSP Charges Former NPA Boss and Others in GH¢280 Million Extortion and Money Laundering Scandal

They further stressed that any meaningful reform must begin with broad stakeholder consultations—including students, youth groups, universities, civil society, and development partners.

“A law that shapes access to academic and professional opportunity for generations of Ghanaians must not be passed in haste. It must be informed, inclusive, and legitimate,” the statement emphasized.

The group is urging the Speaker of Parliament to intervene and call for a pause in the legislative process to allow for more inclusive consultations.

The statement was endorsed by several high-profile advocates including Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, and Dr. Kojo Asante, Director of Partnerships and Policy Engagement at the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana).

source: citinewsroom