An Investigation into the Institutional Response of South African Public Universities to HIV/AIDS

Abstract

The HIV/AIDS infection rate in South Africa is one of the highest in the world. The article reports on the study that sought to determine the supportive role played by South African public universities in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS. The diffusion of innovation theory underpinned this study. A qualitative approach was adopted and semi-structured interviews were conducted with universities’ clinic staff and/or HIV/AIDS staff and those involved in the formulation of the HIV/AIDS policies and implementation. Though all 23 public universities in South Africa were included in the study, only 15 participated. Data were analysed using open coding and thematic categorisation. The findings show that some South African public universities are already playing a significant role in educating their communities and should continue with their interventions. Results also show that owing to financial and structural constraints, some universities have not fulfilled the Department of Higher Education and Training’s mandate.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013.v4n13p727