‘I deeply regret my comments’ – Rev Dr Lawrence Tait apologizes to University of Ghana over HIV comments

The founding father of International Miracle Outreach, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tait has issued a heartfelt apology to the College of Ghana following latest feedback he made on the GTV Breakfast Present. In an announcement issued on October 29, 2024, Rev. Dr. Tate expressed remorse for his remarks, which he believed weren’t meant to replicate negatively on the college, unfold concern, create disgrace or mislead the general public.

The pastor’s apology got here after backlash for feedback he made throughout an interview earlier on Oct. 24 about HIV an infection charges amongst school college students. “The variety of girls and boys who’re HIV optimistic in Legon would be the shock of your life. It is unhappy, it is unhappy, however I am completely satisfied to be saying it on nationwide tv,” Pastor Tait mentioned. Dr. mentioned in an interview. He additional famous that some college students lived “promiscuous lives” and had been contaminated with HIV/AIDS, stressing that his expertise was first-hand as he personally prayed for a number of of these affected.

In response, the College of Ghana issued a press assertion that day, calling his feedback “unfounded, insensitive and disappointing”. The college famous that his claims lacked data-backed proof and had the potential to advertise concern, stigma and misinformation. The company subsequently demanded a public apology.

Rev. Dr. Tait clarified his intentions in an announcement on October 29 and mentioned his remarks weren’t directed on the College of Ghana or its college students. He pressured that his division usually places him in touch with folks coping with delicate points and that his feedback had been aimed toward elevating consciousness of the broader challenges confronted by younger folks moderately than focusing on particular teams.

Reflecting on the unintended penalties of his remarks, Rev. Dr. Tait acknowledged that associating these points with the Ghanaian College neighborhood could trigger pointless misery. “It’s moderately unlucky that in referring to younger folks with such issues I brought on concern within the college neighborhood by associating it with college students on the College of Ghana,” he mentioned in his apology.

In an effort to reaffirm his respect for the establishment, Reverend Dr. Tate retracted his earlier remarks and expressed deep remorse for any hurt brought on. He additionally reiterated his dedication to confidentiality for many who open up to him, stressing the significance of belief inside his division.

See a screenshot of his apology beneath.