Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, founder of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, has issued an apology to the University of Ghana in response to recent comments made on the GTV Breakfast Show. In a statement on October 29, 2024, Dr. Tetteh expressed regret for remarks that he explained were never intended to harm the university’s reputation, incite fear, spread stigma, or mislead the public.

The apology comes after an October 24 interview where Dr. Tetteh commented on the prevalence of HIV infections among university students. During the interview, he stated, “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 also mentioned that some students led “promiscuous lives” and had contracted HIV/AIDS, adding that he had personally ministered to many affected individuals.

The University of Ghana promptly responded, issuing a press statement describing Dr. Tetteh’s comments as “unfounded, insensitive, and disappointing.” They emphasized the lack of evidence supporting his claims, which they said could lead to fear, stigma, and misinformation, and called for a public apology.

In his October 29 statement, Dr. Tetteh clarified that his comments were not meant to single out the University of Ghana or its students. He explained that his ministry frequently involves working with individuals facing sensitive issues, and his intention was to bring attention to broader challenges among the youth, not to target any particular group.

Acknowledging the unintended consequences of his statements, Dr. Tetteh recognized that linking these issues to the University of Ghana may have caused unnecessary concern. “It is rather unfortunate that in referring to the youth with such problems, I linked or associated it with students of the University of Ghana, thereby giving the university community cause for worry,” he said in his apology.

To reinforce his respect for the institution, Dr. Tetteh retracted his previous comments and expressed regret for any distress caused. He also affirmed his commitment to confidentiality within his ministry, emphasizing the trust placed in him by those who seek his counsel.