The University of Ghana has expressed dismay over comments made by the Founder and President of World Miracle Outreach, Rev. Lawrence Tetteh stating emphatically that, high number of students of the institution are affected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
The man of God comments he made in an interview on GTV’s Breakfast Show on October 24, has not gone down well session of the public and the University in general.
His comment reads, “The number of boys and girls in Legon who are HIV positive, you would have the biggest shock of your life. This is sad, this is sad and I’m happy I’m saying this on national TV. Some of these young boys and young girls already on campus are living promiscuous lives and they have already contracted HIV/AIDS. These are people I have prayed for… and I’m not talking about 10 years, 5 years. So, a lot of people think that they are getting a boy or a girl, and then it (HIV) spreads.”
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An official statement from the school authorities described the statement as “insensitive and highly disappointing” adding that, an apology and retraction is needed from Revered Minister and the television station.
“Management of the University of Ghana has noted with grave concern the recent public statements by Rev. Lawrence Tetteh regarding alleged HIV infections among students at the University. The University finds his remarks on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, October 24, 2024, insensitive and highly disappointing. His claims are totally unfounded and not supported by available data” part of the statement reads.
Read Full Statement Below:
UG RESPONDS TO UNFOUNDED CLAIMS ON HIV PREVALENCE AMONG STUDENTS BY REV. LAWRENCE TETTEH
Management of the University of Ghana has noted with grave concern the recent public statements by Rev. Lawrence Tetteh regarding alleged HIV infections among students at the University. The University finds his remarks on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, October 24, 2024, insensitive and highly disappointing. His claims are totally unfounded and not supported by available data.
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It must be noted that:
* Public discussions around HIV/AIDS must be grounded in verified facts, not speculation.
HIV status cannot be determined through counselling or prayer; scientific methods remain the only means for diagnosing infections. Statements made without data-backed evidence mislead the public and risk amplifying fear, stigma and misinformation.
* Handling sensitive health information requires the highest ethical standards. Also, linking HIV prevalence to specific demographics or institutions, especially without evidence, leans toward sensationalism rather than meaningful health awareness. Such statements risk undermining the confidentiality of individuals who may have entrusted their health information in confidence. It is, therefore, disappointing that Rev. Tetteh, given his standing, would make such comments without regard for the privacy and dignity of those affected.
* The University of Ghana has implemented comprehensive health and wellness measures for the University community, including compulsory medical exams conducted by the University Health Services Directorate and confidential counselling through our Careers and Counselling Directorate for students. Our commitment to a transformative student experience ensures that health, privacy and support services are top priorities on all our campuses.
We assure the University community and the public of our support to all students by providing full access to proper medical care and counselling services. We urge the media and the public to approach sensitive health matters with responsibility and caution, focusing on verified facts rather than unfounded claims.
Through this communication, the University expresses its displeasure regarding the discussion on the GTV Breakfast Show and requests an apology and retraction from Rev. Tetteh and GTV.
