The University of Ghana has released a statement in relation to popular preacher and Founder of the World Miracle Outreach, Reverend Lawrence Tetteh’s claims on HIV status on the University of Ghana campus.
During an interview with the State broadcaster, Ghana Television (GTV), the preacher made some profound statements on the status of the widely known Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on the UG campus. According to him, cases of HIV on the campus have shored up, adding that the students are living promiscuous lives.
In his assertion, he claimed to have prayed for numerous students who have contracted the virus.
“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,” he said.
But the university authorities have released a press statement dated October 24, 2024 debunking the claims. According to the statement, the preacher’s claims were made without evidence and are lean toward “sensationalisation” instead of creating awareness. Moreover, making such claims undermines the confidentiality of students who might have provided their health information in confidence.
Furthermore, “statements made without data-backed evidence mislead the public and risk amplifying fear, stigma and misinformation,” it added.
The statement, therefore expressed school authorities’ disappoinment in the religious leader, given his standing, as he made such claims without regarding the privacy and dignity for those affected by the virus.
The university is, in effect, demanding an appology and retraction from Rev. Lawrence Tetteh and GTV.
Read full statement below.
Source: Dehotpress
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