Activity Report 2023

President: Prof. Dr. Shazia Maqbool

The World Down Syndrome Day Walk and activities

Date: 22nd March, 2023

About Event

The World Down Syndrome Day walk celebrated the rights, inclusion, and well-being of individuals with Down syndrome. The event featured a vibrant walk, bringing together families, doctors, and allied health professionals to raise awareness and promote acceptance. Throughout the day, children with Down syndrome participated in a variety of fun, engaging activities designed to foster social interaction and skill development, including arts and crafts, and games. It was a heart warming celebration of diversity and an opportunity to advocate for equal opportunities for all individuals with Down syndrome.

The World Autism Awareness Day Celebration at the Governor House, Punjab

Date: 2nd April, 2023

About Event

The World Autism Awareness Day was held at the Governor House Punjab on 2nd April. It was a landmark event aimed at raising awareness and promoting understanding of autism  spectrum disorder (ASD). The Honorable Governor Engr. Baligh-ur-Rehman took keen interest and this event highlighted his commitment towards health and well being of children. The event brought together government officials, developmental paediatricians, allied health professionals, school representatives and families of children with autism. Keynote speeches emphasized the need for greater community involvement, acceptance, and tailored support to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families.

5th International Developmental-Behavioral Paediatric Conference at University of Child Health Sciences, The Children’s Hospital, Lahore

Date: 13th to 15th July, 2023

About Event

The 5th International Developmental-Behavioral Paediatric Conference, held from 13th to 15th July 2023 at the University of Child Health Sciences, The Children’s Hospital, Lahore, brought together experts, healthcare professionals, and researchers from both national and international avenues to explore the latest developments in the field. The conference featured a diverse range of topics, including autism spectrum disorder, early childhood development, genetic influences on neurodevelopment, and innovative therapies for cerebral palsy. Keynote lectures, interactive workshops, and panel discussions provided attendees with cutting-edge knowledge and practical strategies for improving care and outcomes for children with developmental and behavioral challenges. The event emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and collaboration among doctors, allied health professionals, educators, and families to enhance the well-being of children. The conference included various workshops as well:

  1. Botox and Cerebral palsy
  2. Genetics: The New Normal
  3. Impact of Occupational Therapy in Community-Based Rehabilitation
  4. Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Developmental Screening

Participation at the 8th PPA Annual Symposium

Date: 15th- 17th September, 2023

About Event

Workshop on “Autism in a nutshell” provided an overview of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), covering key diagnostic criteria, common characteristics, and red flags for general practitioners to screen and refer children with ASD.

Workshop on Early Childhood Development (ECD) by UNICEF

Dates: 24th to 26th October, 2023

About Event

This workshop focused on the importance of nurturing care in the first years of life for promoting optimal development. The session covered key topics such as cognitive, social, and emotional development, the impact of nutrition, safety and security and early stimulation, and the role of caregivers in fostering a supportive environment. Experts emphasized evidence-based strategies for supporting children’s development, particularly in underserved communities, and the integration of ECD practices into healthcare and education systems.