The University of Ghana has issued a strong rebuke against Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh following his recent claims of widespread HIV infections among students on the Legon campus. The institution’s management, in a statement released on October 25, 2024, condemned the remarks made by Rev. Tetteh on GTV’s Breakfast Show as “insensitive and highly disappointing,” describing his comments as speculative and unsupported by data.
Rev. Tetteh’s statements, made during a national broadcast on October 24, asserted that there was a significant number of HIV cases among students at the university, claims which the institution has categorically denied. “The University finds his remarks on GTV’s Breakfast Show…insensitive and highly disappointing. His claims are totally unfounded and not supported by available data,” the statement read, emphasizing that such sensitive public health topics must be rooted in verified information rather than conjecture.
University officials cautioned that public discussions about HIV/AIDS require a high ethical standard to prevent spreading fear, stigma, and misinformation. They stressed that scientific testing is the only accurate means of diagnosing HIV, and that relying on counseling or prayer alone for diagnosis is misleading.
“Handling sensitive health information requires the highest ethical standards. Linking HIV prevalence to specific demographics or institutions, especially without evidence, leans toward sensationalism rather than meaningful health awareness,” the university stated. They further criticized Rev. Tetteh’s remarks for potentially jeopardizing the confidentiality and dignity of individuals within the university community who may face stigma.
The University of Ghana highlighted its commitment to health and wellness, noting that it has implemented stringent health measures, including mandatory medical exams by the University Health Services Directorate and confidential counseling services. According to the institution, these protocols are part of their broader commitment to ensuring a supportive environment for students and staff.
In response to the controversy stirred by Rev. Tetteh’s comments, the university is demanding an apology, urging the reverend to retract his statements. As the institution strives to maintain a safe, stigma-free environment, it asserts that unfounded public comments could hinder efforts to support affected individuals and may undermine the trust placed in the university’s health and counseling services.
As the matter unfolds, it remains to be seen if Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh will respond to the university’s demand for an apology and retract his comments regarding HIV infections on the Legon campus.
