(Seated) Prof B Mayosi (Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences), Professor J Ratsirarson  (Vice-President, University of Antananarivo) (Standing) Dr R Morar, Prof S Kidson, A/Prof E Duncan, Prof S Duval (Faculty of Medicine, University of Antananarivo) , Prof R Galvaan, Dr A Sonday , Prof H Kathard

On 30 January 2018, a Memorandum of Understanding between UCT FHS and University of Antananarivo (UA), was signed. The MOU focuses on continued collaboration in the development of under and postgraduate Occupational Therapy education in Madagascar.

The process started in 2015 when UA approached UCT for support in the design of a Licence in Occupational Therapy curriculum.

Technical and financial assistance for the project was provided by Christoffel Blinden Mission (CBM)International, a Christian organisation working with partners, to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities in the poorest communities of the world. Bilateral visits have occurred to facilitate the design and implementation of a Malagasy relevant occupational therapy programme.

The first cohort of students graduated in December 2017 and will take up newly established positions within the Ministry of Health, Madagascar.

The 2018 MOU extends on the existing bilateral agreement in which UCT occupational therapy staff will support the development of an Occupational Therapy Masters degree over the course of the next two years.

It is anticipated that CBM will continue to partner with UA and UCT in providing financial and technical support for the academic project.

Left: Prof B Mayosi, UCT FHS Right: Prof J Ratsirarson, University of Antananarivo