The Department of Chiropractic at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA) have joined forces through a new three-year Memorandum of Understanding, marking a major step in using science to boost athlete performance in the province.
The agreement was signed on 9 March 2026 at the Chiropractic Clinic, Ritson Campus. The partnership aims to create opportunities for students, promote collaborative research, and contribute to the continued development of athletics in KwaZulu-Natal.
Through this agreement, students will gain hands-on experience working with athletes in areas such as injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement. The initiative will also strengthen research focused on athlete health, fitness, and overall well-being, ensuring that academic knowledge translates into real-world impact in the sporting environment.
Head of the Department of Chiropractic, Dr Desiree Varatharajullu, described the partnership as an important starting point that could lead to many future projects and a mutually beneficial relationship between the institutions.
“We are looking forward to this collaboration as it will provide students with valuable practical experience, allowing them to work directly with athletes and observe a wide range of conditions and injuries that may affect athletes across the province, closely aligning with their academic studies,” she said.
Dr Varatharajullu also credited Dr Grant Matkovich and the entire Chiropractic team for their dedication and efforts in making this exciting collaboration possible.
President of KZN Athletics, Mr Steve Mkasi, explained that the collaboration introduces a stronger scientific foundation within athletics to enhance the competitiveness of athletes in KwaZulu-Natal and that DUT is well positioned to contribute this expertise.
“This partnership integrates a scientific dimension into athletics, enhancing athletes’ health, performance, fitness, and recovery from injuries. It also provides a platform for athletes to pursue academic advancement alongside their sporting careers. In addition, our coaches will benefit from a deeper understanding of the scientific principles underpinning sport, enabling them to refine and elevate their training methodologies,” he said.
Pictured: President of the KZN Athletics, Mr, Steve Mkasi and DUT Head of the Department of Chiropractic, Dr Desiree Varatharajullu signing the MoU.
Photographer: Sbonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
