The Department of Physiology in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP) and ASS Investment 98 (Pty) Ltd, operating as MTC Dome, have formalised a collaboration to bolster neuroscience research efforts. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two institutions aims to facilitate joint initiatives in the field of neuroscience, leveraging their combined expertise and resources.

As the sole high-performance training center in Namibia, MTC Dome is dedicated to nurturing excellence in sports and providing cutting-edge training and support for elite athletes across various disciplines. Its commitment to excellence is underscored by its membership with the Association of Sport Performance Centers (ASPC), ensuring adherence to the highest standards in sports performance.

The primary goal of this partnership is to offer postgraduate physiology students from UP the opportunity to work within the Neuroscience Lab at MTC Dome. Students will engage in performance testing and interventions, contributing to the advancement of neuroscience research.

Tasks within the Neuroscience Lab are designed to enhance students' practical skills and provide valuable data for ongoing research endeavors. This collaborative approach ensures a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and expertise between the institutions.

The research outcomes from this collaboration have the potential to drive advancements in neuroscience, with implications for fields such as medicine, psychology, and cognitive science. By joining forces, UP’s Department of Physiology and MTC Dome aim to strengthen their academic contributions and enrich the educational experience of students.

A notable aspect of this partnership is the commitment from MTC Dome to cover all expenses related to student participation. This financial support underscores their dedication to fostering collaborative research and knowledge exchange.

Prof Peet du Toit, Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology at the Faculty of Health Sciences, UP, emphasised the strategic nature of the partnership. He stated, "The MOU represents a strategic partnership aimed at advancing neuroscience research and providing valuable learning opportunities for postgraduate physiology students. We are confident that this collaboration will yield fruitful results and contribute to the academic and research excellence of both institutions."

The dynamic collaboration seeks to deliver exciting developments in neuroscience that will propel both institutions to the forefront of scientific innovation.