The purpose of the study is to improve our understanding of the current impact of HIV and AIDS on primary education in four Eastern and Southem African countries. The study uses Kelly's (2000) framework which identifies potential ways in which education systems are affected by HIV and AIDS. Using a selection of his categories the study is designed to assess the impact at both national and local levels through the collection of empirical data on the teaching force and the situation of orphans in each country. It also assesses the actual impact on students and schools in a small number of communities and additionally on the changes in community responses to HIV and AIDS.