The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has taken strong exception to a recent statement by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which questioned the use of honorary academic titles.
In a press statement released on Monday, May 19, 2025, GUTA accused GTEC of attempting to tarnish the image of its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, describing the Commission’s cautionary release as a “malicious attempt” to discredit a widely respected national figure.
GUTA defended Dr. Obeng’s honorary Doctorate of Humanity, conferred by Alpha International Theological Seminary in 2016, stressing that the recognition was based on decades of selfless service to Ghana’s informal sector.
“This is an overreach and a reputational attack on a leader whose impact speaks louder than credentials,” GUTA stated, adding that Dr. Obeng’s accolades, including a Platinum Award for Excellence in Leadership, reflect real contributions to national progress.
The Association has called on GTEC to retract its comments and issue a public apology, arguing that leadership should be measured by service, not just academic achievement.
“Dr. Obeng is more than a title, he is a voice for traders, a pillar of advocacy, and a champion for economic transformation,” the statement read.
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GUTA further urged public institutions to consult stakeholders and act with professionalism, vowing to stand by informal sector leaders who are working to build Ghana through integrity and action.
Source: Ghana/StarrFM 103.5FM/Roberta Acquaah
