UG condemns Rev Lawrence Tetteh's 'harmful' HIV remarks, citing lack of evidence

Oct 26, 2024 - 14:55

Reverend Lawrence Tetteh is the founder and president of World Miracle Outreach

Accra, Ghana - October 26, 2024 - The University of Ghana has swiftly denounced statements made by Reverend Lawrence Tetteh, Founder and President of World Miracle Outreach, regarding the alleged high prevalence of HIV infections among its students.

In an interview on GTV's Breakfast Show on October 24, Rev. Tetteh claimed that many students at the university's Legon campus are living with HIV/AIDS, citing his personal experience praying for infected students.

“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," he said on October 24.

“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,” the pastor added.

However, the university promptly issued a press release on October 24, 2024, labeling the pastor's remarks as "unfounded, insensitive, and disappointing."

The university emphasized that Rev. Tetteh's assertions lack concrete evidence and perpetuate harmful stigma, fear, and misinformation. The institution has not provided any data to support the pastor's claims, casting doubt on their validity.

Rev. Tetteh's comments have sparked outrage among students, alumni, and health advocates, who argue that such statements can exacerbate existing challenges in combating HIV/AIDS stigma.

The university has urged the public to rely on credible sources for information and to refrain from spreading harmful speculation.

Find the statement from the University of Ghana below.