Occupational Therapy Research Symposium Showcases Ground-Breaking Student Research

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The Discipline of Occupational Therapy (School of Health Sciences) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) recently hosted its 2024 Research Symposium, where final-year students presented a series of impactful research projects covering a wide range of critical health and occupational therapy topics. The symposium showcased the students’ dedication to addressing real-world issues, with presentations spanning 10 diverse topics.

The student research studies were centred on exploring teachers’ management of adolescents with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the experiences of Black African university students transitioning from rural to urban life, social transformation in the occupational therapy curriculum, palliative care practices of occupational therapists, and reflections on challenges faced by educators in KZN non-fee schools during crises. Further, studies that were education-based focused on Occupational Therapy students’ mental health experiences and topics concerning the curriculum content, such as ergonomics and hand rehabilitation (splinting).

One standout project, titled “Exploring the Lived Experiences and Quality of Life of Mental Healthcare Users in Chronic Psychiatric Facilities in KwaZulu-Natal”, earned first place; presented by students Hlengwa I, Matandabuzo P, Mvubu F, Naidu K, and Tshabalala T, and supervised by Dr Thavanesi Gurayah. The study provided valuable insights into the lived experiences of long-term psychiatric patients in KZN and employed an explorative qualitative design; gathering data through semi-structured interviews with purposively selected participants.

Findings highlighted the patients’ need to reconnect with family members, their use of occupational therapy and personal faith as coping mechanisms, and the environmental challenges they face in chronic care facilities. Gurayah shared that, ‘the research is a crucial reminder of the human side of mental healthcare and the importance of family integration, better facility maintenance, and tailored psychosocial intervention.’

The presentations underscored the commitment of UKZN’s Occupational Therapy students and academic team to driving change through research that touches the lives of individuals and communities in meaningful ways. The external examiner, Dr Siyabonga Dlamini from the School of Public Health and the internal examiner, Professor Deshini Naidoo, provided purposeful and insightful feedback to the students. Academic staff involvement and support from the team was evident in making the symposium successful.

Overall, the Discipline of Occupational Therapy academic team highlighted the values of research amongst students, which is a UKZN value, and ensured that students were equipped with research skills needed as they begin their careers as clinicians in the evolving health system. The 2024 symposium exemplified the potential of these emerging professionals to make a lasting impact in healthcare and occupational therapy in South Africa and globally. Furthermore, the symposium demonstrates the growth of African scholarship.

Words and photograph: Nombuso Dlamini