Ghana’s public sector is witnessing a worrying rise in public officers presenting fake or unearned academic titles and certificates to secure appointments, promotions, and professional recognition. Sources say the trend has intensified, with some individuals using fraudulent or unaccredited qualifications to advance within the service.
In response, the Public Services Commission and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) have joined forces to curb the growing misuse of illegitimate credentials and strengthen transparency in public sector recruitment.
Mandatory Evaluation of Certificates
Citing its mandate to safeguard the integrity of tertiary education, GTEC has requested that the Public Services Commission require all public officers seeking appointment, promotion, or certification to submit their highest academic qualification for verification. The evaluation process will now form a compulsory component of public sector appointment and promotion procedures.
This collaboration aims to ensure that only authentic, accredited qualifications are recognized, maintaining the credibility of public service roles and promoting merit-based advancement.
GTEC Flags Rising Abuse of Academic Titles
In a letter dated October 24, 2025, addressed to the Chairman of the Public Services Commission, GTEC confirmed it had observed a growing number of officers using unearned academic titles and submitting questionable certificates when applying for public service opportunities.
By enforcing strict evaluation protocols, both institutions hope to eliminate fraudulent qualifications and restore public confidence in the recruitment and promotion systems.
