University of Ghana SRC reacts to AIDS allegations

The Students Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Ghana, Legon reacted to the publication that 2,000 students of the university are infected with the HIV/AIDS, saying it is a calculated attempt to taint the image of the country's premier university.

Describing the publication as "scandalous, scurrilous, libellous," the SRC said it has cast a serious slur on the integrity of the students.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Frank Acheampong, the Secretary.

An Accra newspaper in its July 16th issue alleged that the Minister of Health, Dr. Richard Anane had said this on the floor of the Parliament House during question time.

The University authorities have already condemned the report and described it as irresponsible journalism.

The authorities said they had a copy of the Minister's speech and nowhere did it mention the school and promised to take up the matter to the highest level.

The statement said investigations revealed that the allegation was loaded with "twisted fabrication, misrepresentation and nothing but absolute false".

"We therefore condemn in no uncertain terms that publication in the Daily Guide and the subsequent derogatory remarks on PEACE FM. We hope in future, investigative journalism would precede over hasty publication to prevent misinformation."

The statement pledged support for the university authorities for whatever actions they may take.