Dr Apaak Defends President Mahama’s Acceptance Of Honorary PhD

Deputy Minister of Education Dr Clement Abas Apaak has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to accept an honorary doctorate degree, arguing that the award recognises his contributions to national development and was not something he demanded.

Speaking on a current affairs programme, Dr Apaak said that honorary degrees are often given to individuals whose work has had significant impact in particular fields or on society at large. He explained that President Mahama did not request the honour but was selected by an academic institution in recognition of his leadership and service.

According to Dr Apaak, many world leaders and notable public figures receive similar awards as a way of celebrating achievements and inspiring others. He said that such recognitions do not diminish the dignity of the recipient and instead highlight positive aspects of their careers.

Dr Apaak noted that critics of the honorary degree should consider the long record of initiatives and policies led by President Mahama that have had educational, economic and social impact. He argued that academic honours are not unusual for people who have served at the highest levels of national leadership.

He also emphasised that universities and colleges have the autonomy to confer honorary awards based on their own criteria, and such decisions are typically made independently of government influence.

Dr Apaak urged critics to focus on substantive issues affecting national development rather than reactions to ceremonial recognitions. He said that public debate should be centred on policies and programmes that directly affect citizens’ lives.

The remarks come amid discussions about the value and relevance of honorary degrees in contemporary society. Some members of the public questioned whether national leaders should accept honorary awards, while others see them as legitimate acknowledgements of service.

Dr Apaak’s comments have drawn mixed reactions, with supporters agreeing that academic recognitions can reflect genuine achievement, and critics urging greater scrutiny of how and why such awards are granted.