News

21 January 2026

3rd Global Autism Convention 2026

The Department of Psychiatric Nursing participated in the 3rd Global Autism Convention (GAC) 2026, held from 21st to 25th January 2026 at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, on the theme “Autism in the Global South: Culture, Community, and Neurodiversity.” The convention provided an international platform for healthcare professionals, educators, researchers, caregivers, self-advocates, and policymakers to deliberate on culturally responsive, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming autism care, with a special focus on innovations from low- and middle-income countries. The scientific program comprised keynote lectures, workshops, symposiums, panel discussions, and interactive sessions addressing early identification, feeding and eating concerns, anxiety management, therapeutic play, assessment tools, behavior management, inclusive education, co-occurring conditions, gender issues, workforce inclusion, digital and AI-based interventions, and family-centered support. Community-oriented discussions highlighted the role of nursing, primary care, schools, and culturally sensitive services in autism care. Faculty and students participated in various capacities including organizing committee members, delegates, and session participants, contributing to academic engagement and professional development in inclusive and community-based autism care.