The Department of Occupational Therapy is delighted to welcome you to OT@UP and excited by the selective return to our vibrant campus! Whether beginning or continuing your educational journey, we look forward to learning, exploring, and growing together.

Throughout the pandemic, you have faced challenges and been called on to sacrifice significant rites of passage for the greater good of public health. During this time, we have appreciated your ability to adapt to an ever-evolving situation and to find opportunities for growth amid the many changes. This academic year still holds some unknowns for us considering the ongoing pandemic, and we will all have to remain understanding and flexible amid a fluid situation. We are thrilled to have you with us for online lectures and contact sessions for skills labs and fieldwork despite the unique circumstances.

The academic team of this department values the maintenance of high standards and throughput of students. We are in line with the rules and regulations of our faculty, which allows for promotions of modules when a student performs consistently in the duration of the module. However, as healthcare professionals, the underlying principle of “causing no harm” remains the guiding light during your studies which requires a high standard of academic performance.

Paramount to academic achievement, OT@UP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The diversity of our students brings richness to peer-learning contexts in-class activities. Collaborations with the greater university and society on disability issues showcase the value of occupational therapy.

Our department dedicates all efforts to educating future contributors and leaders. We encourage a community that is free of intolerance and discrimination, promoting a climate that is respectful and supportive. These core values allow us to provide a learning environment where students and staff can pursue our dreams and reach our highest potential.

Sincerely,

Kitty Uys

Head of Department