The University recognises that South Africa, with the rest of southern Africa, is experiencing a devastating HIV/AIDS epidemic. The University also recognises that HIV/AIDS is not only a health issue, but one which concerns the entire University community and our society in every possible respect. As an institution that strives to engage with society and be responsible to it, the University is committed to playing an active role in mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS, both on its internal constituency of staff and students, and on society as a whole. The University will aim to achieve this by integrating HIV/AIDS into its core functions of teaching, research and service, the components of which are outlined in this policy. In doing so, the University hopes to be a caring community where all are equally valued.