about us
OTASA is a professional association that advances the dynamic growth of quality occupational therapy with a focus on occupation and a distinct South African identity.
The Association started in 1943 when two pioneering British OTs arrived in South Africa to establish the first Occupational Therapy course at the University of Witwatersrand and start the first Occupational Therapy Department at the Johannesburg General Hospital (now called Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital). Operating over the years in an environment that has undergone major policy and legislative changes, the Association continues to strengthen its position as a unified voice for occupational therapy in South Africa, representing all involved in the profession in order to achieve its vision as an integral, evidence-based and relevant force meeting society’s occupational needs in partnership with key stakeholders and the public.