Perceived HIV/AIDS impact among higher education institutions in the Eastern Cape

A descriptive questionnaire-based study was undertaken among higher education institutions in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were to establish costs and trends in costs associated with HIV/AIDS morbidity and mortality, and to assess perceived HIV/AIDS impact on job performance and coping with performance problems. To this end, a systematic random sample of 137 head of departments from 14 higher education institutions was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The results of the study showed that HIV/AIDS increases indirect costs, lowers job performance and increases staff turnover. It can be concluded that HIV/AIDS is having a serious impact on the fiscal situation of tertiary institutions in much the same ways as it does on other institutions. It is, therefore, imperative for higher education institutions to respond to HIV/AIDS for their own benefit and that of their broader stakeholders. Early action will reap tremendous savings in both economic and human terms.