This report documents responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic by South African universities. It reflects on the dynamics behind these responses and focuses on the findings of an investigation by the South African Universities Vice Chancellors Association (SAUVCA) The investigation examined institutional responses in four areas: management, planning, programmes and policy. The report analyses key strategy issues including leadership, capacity, resources and the system-level impacts that HIV/AIDS will have on higher education. The findings were presented to a workshop with member institutions on 26 October 2000 and agreement was reached on the elements of a co-ordinated strategy for the near future. It argues for a sector-wide response to HIV/AIDS to strengthen a co-ordinated response.