GTEC Flags Over 80 Unrecognized Institutions as GES Calls for Official Register of Accredited Schools
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a critical warning to the public, identifying more than 80 local and international institutions whose academic qualifications are not recognized in Ghana. These institutions, which include Doxa, Debest, and Faith University, have been flagged due to significant concerns regarding their accreditation status, governance structures, and academic standards. GTEC’s directive serves as a safeguard against the proliferation of sub-standard education, urging prospective students and employers to verify credentials before committing to enrollment or hiring processes. Included in the extensive list are well-known international entities such as Atlantic International University and Louisiana Baptist University, highlighting the global scale of the accreditation challenge. In reaction to this regulatory crackdown, Daniel Fenyi, the Head of Public Relations at the Ghana Education Service (GES), has called for a shift in GTEC’s communication strategy. While acknowledging the utility of flagging unaccredited schools, Fenyi argues that publishing a comprehensive and regularly updated register of accredited institutions would be more effective for the general public. He contends that relying solely on a list of "blacklisted" schools can be problematic, as it may inadvertently grant a false sense of legitimacy to institutions that are neither accredited nor yet caught by the commission. A "white list" of verified institutions, he suggests, would simplify the verification process for parents and students, ensuring they make informed decisions based on confirmed quality. This debate underscores the ongoing struggle to maintain academic integrity within Ghana’s tertiary education sector. GTEC continues to emphasize that regulatory compliance is non-negotiable for any institution seeking to operate or have its certificates recognized within the country. As the commission works to refine its oversight, the calls from the GES highlight a growing need for proactive transparency in the educational landscape. For students, the message remains clear: rigorous due diligence is essential to ensure that the time and financial resources invested in higher education result in valid, industry-recognized qualifications that can support their future careers.