This paper is an introduction to Education Management Information Systems (EMIS) in the context of the era of HIV and AIDS. It provides an overview of EMIS, its aims and objectives, and provides detail around its design and function. In addition it considers the importance of management information systems in the context of HIV/AIDS. This document is the first in a two-part series, the second focusing on District Education Management and Monitoring Information Systems (DEMMIS), for capturing a limited amount of local data on a more regular basis than the annual EMIS. This Occasional Paper is specially written for those working in and with Ministries of Education. Education Management Information Systems in the Era of HIV and AIDS: An Introduction will help you consider: The purpose of an Education Management Information System and its relevance in your Ministry; The phases of developing an Education Management Information System (EMIS); What categories of data are important for measuring and tracking the impact of HIV and AIDS on the education sector, and strategies for collecting data; Potential indicators for tracking the impact on pupils and teachers, as well as for monitoring responses in your Ministry.