SWET
About the SWET Research Group
Bridging Sport, Wellness, Excellence and Technology for All
The Sport Wellness Equity and Technology (SWET) Research Group part of the Centre for Sport Business and Technology Research at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), envisions a South Africa where people from all communities can achieve their full potential through sport. SWET’s mission is to conduct interdisciplinary research at the interface of sport and wellness, developing strategies to increase access and performance.
Under Prof Sharhidd Taliep's leadership, the group addresses disparities in sport, wellness, and excellence by promoting community transformation through equitable access and education.
The team’s expertise spans key areas, including equitable sport participation, physical activity and well-being, sport technology integration, community transformation, education and capacity building, policy advocacy, and youth development.
Our Approach
Sport and physical education in South Africa face significant challenges, particularly in underserved communities. Barriers such as unequal access to facilities, coaching, and technology, along with cultural and gender stereotypes, hinder participation.
We address these challenges by developing sustainable pathways for sport and physical activity that promote wellness, excellence, and inclusivity among underrepresented groups. Technology plays a crucial role in bridging these gaps, creating new opportunities for all South Africans.
Our Research
Our research focuses on three key areas: Access, Excellence, and Wellness. We explore critical questions and strategies to promote sustainable, inclusive participation, with a focus on underserved communities.
Access
We aim to ensure sport participation and physical activity opportunities for all communities
- What are the challenges and opportunities in creating sustainable models for sport and physical activity excellence in underserved areas, and how can these be addressed?
- What are the most effective strategies for promoting inclusive sport and physical activity programs in underserved areas?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve the accessibility of coaching and training for all demographics, particularly women and youth?
- To what extent can we leverage on technology to promote sport and physical fitness?
Excellence
We seek to enhance sporting and physical fitness across all communities
- How can training programs be designed to effectively address the needs of different stakeholders (e.g., educators, coaches, parents)?
- To what extent can technology be used to develop skill and excellence?
Wellness
We focus on leveraging sport and physical activity to improve the well-being of South Africans at all life stages
- What are the long-term benefits of sports participation and physical activity on holistic development in South African communities?
- How can research strategies be co-developed with various stakeholders (e.g., Department of Education, sports federations, NGOs) to ensure relevance and impact?
Popular Newspaper Articles
- Drinking Rooibos Could Help Team SA Bring Home the Gold
- Move over Champagne, Rooibos is the new kid on the block
- Health of firefighters on the front line
- T20 World Cup: South Africa reached its first final ever – but staying at the top will take a rethink of junior cricket
- Cricket World Cup 2023: what it’ll take for South Africa to win
Partner with Us
We invite you to join us in our mission to promote equitable sport participation and excellence across South Africa.
Prof Sharhidd Taliep
Sport Excellence and Equity Research Group
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Email: talieps@cput.ac.za
3rd Floor, The Wicket Building, Newlands Cricket Ground, 146 Campground Road, Newlands 7700, Cape Town, South Africa.
Our Partners and Collaborators
