Assemblies of God Ghana Bans Use of Honorary Titles by Pastors

The Assemblies of God (AG), Ghana, has directed its pastors to desist from using honorary academic titles such as “Dr,” in line with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission’s (GTEC) regulations, which recognise only earned qualifications.

In a circular dated July 11, signed by the church’s General Secretary, Rev. Ernest Birikorang (Ph.D.), ministers were reminded to protect the integrity of the ministry by avoiding conflicts with the regulator. The directive stated that pastors conferred with honorary doctorate degrees—whether from accredited or non-accredited institutions—must not append the title “Dr” to their names.

However, those with earned degrees such as bachelor’s, master’s or Ph.D. may submit their certificates to GTEC for verification if they wish to have them officially recognised by the church. The circular further warned that any pastor who violated the directive or conflicted with GTEC regulations would face suspension.

The move comes after GTEC cautioned against the growing misuse of academic titles in Ghana. The commission stressed that while honorary degrees are legitimate, they are purely symbolic and do not carry academic or professional status. Misuse, it said, misleads the public and undermines the education system. Under the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), offenders risk fines, imprisonment of up to one year, or both.

The Assemblies of God cited the example of its General Superintendent, Rev. Stephen Wengam, who voluntarily stopped using the “Dr” title despite receiving an honorary doctorate. The church believes compliance will uphold credibility and demonstrate respect for Ghana’s education laws.