The Division of Occupational Therapy has an active research programme focused on generating contextually relevant knowledge that responds to health, social and occupational needs in South Africa and beyond. Research is closely linked to occupational therapy practice, occupational science, education and broader social issues.

Research in the Division explores how people, communities and organisations can participate meaningfully in everyday occupations, with a particular focus on inclusion, social justice and contextually appropriate practice. Research areas include occupational justice, advocacy and agency, disability inclusion, community-based services, early intervention, mental health, evidence-based practice, occupational therapy education and innovative research approaches.

For an overview of our research areas, click on this link: Occupational Therapy Research Areas | Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Occupational Therapy Researchers:

• Professor Roshan Galvaan
• A/Professor Helen Buchanan
• Dr Pam Gretschel
• Mrs Meghan Krenzer

The Division's research is supported through its postgraduate programmes, including MSc and PhD studies, which provide opportunities for students to undertake research addressing relevant occupational therapy and occupational science questions.