HIV/AIDS WORKPLACE POLICY AT THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HEADQUARTERS IN MALAWI

HIVIAIDS is indiscriminate: it does not think about rank or status, it cannot be inoculated against and it affects policy makers and implementers alike. It is not just someone else's problem; it is everyone's. The situation is considered to be so grave that the World Bank has indicated that 'in parts of Africa, if effective action is not taken to combat the spread of the epidemic, HIVIAIDS could result in economic collapse ' (Bell et ai, 2003). Malawi is one of the Sub-Saharan countries hardest hit by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The first case of the illness was diagnosed in 1985 and the country's attempts to deal with the epidemic began in 1986 (Malawi Government, 2002). The response by governmental and non-governmental organisations demonstrated an acceptance of the existence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a problem affecting society. Initially, the approach taken was intended to prevent the further spread of the infection. Later, the focus was broadened to include support and impact mitigation (Barnett & Whiteside, 2002). The first extensive review and stakeholder consultation on the epidemic was undertaken alongsid