Is Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai of GTEC a 
“Professor”?
The use of academic titles has sparked a heated debate in Ghana, with many questioning the propriety of Associate Professor Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai prefixing his name with the title “Professor.” As the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof. Jinapor has been at the forefront of efforts to standardize academic titles and promote integrity in Ghana’s tertiary education sector.
However, Ghanaians are pointing out the seeming inconsistency in Prof. Jinapor’s use of the title “Professor” when his academic rank is Associate Professor. According to the GTEC, temporary or honorary titles not earned through recognized pathways should not appear in official documents. This raises questions about the criteria for using the title “Professor” in Ghana’s academic landscape.
Understanding Academic Titles in Ghana
In Ghana, academic ranks follow a strict order: Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and then Professor. While Prof. Jinapor’s credentials as an Associate Professor are not in doubt, the use of the title “Professor” implies a level of academic achievement that may not be applicable in this case. GTEC’s clarification on the matter emphasizes that titles not formally earned must not be used in any documentation.
The Need for Clarity
The debate surrounding Prof. Jinapor’s title highlights the need for clarity on academic promotion processes in Ghana’s tertiary education sector. As the regulator of universities and tertiary institutions, GTEC plays a critical role in ensuring that academic titles are used appropriately. By providing clear guidelines on the use of titles, GTEC can help prevent confusion and promote a culture of integrity in Ghana’s academic community.
A Call for Consistency
As Ghana’s academic community continues to evolve, it’s essential to prioritize consistency and transparency in the use of academic titles. By doing so, we can promote a culture of accountability and ensure that academic credentials are recognized and respected. Ultimately, the debate surrounding Prof. Jinapor’s title serves as a reminder of the importance of clarity and consistency in academic nomenclature.