Management of Staff and Students Living with HIV and AIDS in a South African Rural-Based University

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is making its toll in South African institutions of higher education. Studies revealed that several students and staff became ill and some died in patterns that signal HIV and AIDS-related conditions. The study aim was to explore how the staff and students living with HIV and AIDS are managed at a South-African rural-based university. The study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach as a methodology. In-depth interviews were conducted with19 participants composed of staff and students living with HIV and AIDS and other university staff involved in the provision of care to this population. Data were analysed using IPA framework for data analysis. One superordinate theme “inadequate planning to address the need for managing staff and students living with HIV and AIDS on the campus” emerged from data analysed. This theme had four sub-themes: persisting stigma and discrimination, lack of confidentiality, inadequate treatment, care and support. This study recommends the development of a contextually relevant HIV/AIDS care management model for a South African rural-based university.