Introduction / Rationale: Obesity is a growing public health concern in Cyprus, and rates of childhood obesity are among the highest in the European Union. Despite the increasing burden of obesity, occupational therapy remains underutilized in weight management initiatives locally. The Astana Declaration highlights the need for integrated, preventive health approaches, yet Cyprus lacks the establishment of occupational therapy roles in this area. Role-emerging placements offer students the opportunity to develop skills in settings where occupational therapy is not traditionally present, expanding their professional identity and advocating for the profession in emerging practice areas.
Objectives: This study explores the experiences of final-year occupational therapy students participating in a role-emerging placement for weight management in Cyprus.
Methods /Approach: A qualitative approach was used, with semi-structured interviews conducted with students engaged in a 10-week placement within online intervention for obesity prevention. Data were analyzed using Braun & Clarke’s thematic analysis.
Results: Findings indicate that students perceived the placement as an opportunity to expand the role of occupational therapy in public health, develop professional confidence, and enhance advocacy skills. The students reported increased readiness for emerging practice settings but also encountered challenges related to interprofessional collaboration, systemic barriers, and limited awareness of the role of occupational therapy in obesity management.
Conclusion:The study highlights the importance of integrating role emerging placements into occupational therapy education to enhance workforce capacity and promote occupational therapy’s expertise in preventive health strategies. By bridging education, workforce development, and public health, this study reinforces the need for curriculum development in Cyprus.