Kozhikode: ‘Proact’ Early Intervention Summit, held on 04 & 05 December 2024 at Farook College, began with a smooth registration process at 9:00 AM, welcoming attendees from various fields. The inaugural ceremony kicked off at 10:00 AM, with Dr. K. Nisha, Head of the Department of Psychology, Farook College, delivering a warm welcome address. She emphasized the importance of early intervention in neurodevelopmental disorders and the role of collaboration in creating better outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Dr. K.A. Aysha Swapna, Principal of Farook College, followed with the presidential address, reaffirming the college’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in disability-related education.
The inauguration was led by Dr. P.T. Baburaj, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, who urged the need for systemic changes and comprehensive policies for individuals with disabilities. Dr. M.K. Jayaraj, Chief Guest and Director of ULCCS Foundation, shared insights on the role of advocacy, creativity, and technology in promoting inclusion and transforming the lives of those with disabilities.
The sessions commenced with Dr. T.P. Ashraf, Vice Principal and Head of Pediatrics at Government Medical College, Manjeri, speaking on holistic approaches to neurodevelopmental disorders. He emphasized early diagnosis and multi-disciplinary interventions. Following this, Dr. Jasna U, Consultant Physiatrist, facilitated a session on understanding the neurodiversity of behavior in the context of disability, highlighting the importance of sensitivity and awareness.
The afternoon session featured a panel discussion moderated by Gireesh Keerthi, Board Member of Kerala State Handicapped Welfare Corporation, titled “Perspectives on Disability: Advocacy, Creativity, and Inclusion.” Panelists, including Mariyath C.H, Afsal M.H, Raees Hidaya,and Amal Iqbal discussed advocacy, inclusive education, and creative approaches to promoting accessibility.
In the final session of the day, Neethu P., Consultant Early Interventionist at the National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, led a on integrated approaches to early intervention, addressing key strategies for better outcomes in children with developmental disorders.
The day concluded with a cultural program, “Kazchakalkkum Kazhchapadukalkkum Oru…,” presented by Iqraa Thanal Super Specialty Early Intervention Centre, which creatively portrayed the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of early intervention.
The Summit, continued into its second day on 5th December 2024,.The day began early with an insightful keynote address by Dr. Ahammed Shall, a Consultant Developmental Pediatrician at Dr. Shafi’s Child Development Centre in Kozhikode. His address focused on Inclusion and Empowerment, stressing the importance of fostering inclusive environments for children with disabilities and the role of early intervention in empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
Following this, Nadeem Banu, an Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner and Certified Autism Specialist, facilitated a session on Sensory Integration and Management. This session provided attendees with a deeper understanding of how sensory processing issues impact children with disabilities and explored strategies for managing these challenges effectively.
The conference continued with Gopika K.N., a Genetic Counselor at Iqraa International Hospital and Thanal Super Speciality Early Intervention Centre in Kozhikode, who led a session titled Genetic Conditions: What Everyone Should Know. Gopika’s session educated participants about various genetic conditions and their implications, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and the role of genetic counseling in early intervention.
The afternoon sessions began with Dr. Lukman Sha MP, a Consultant Psychiatrist, who spoke about Psychiatric Comorbidities in Children with Disabilities. His presentation delved into the intersection of psychiatric disorders and disabilities, stressing the importance of integrated care to address the complex needs of children with both developmental and mental health challenges.
Later in the afternoon, the summit hosted a Panel Discussion on Parent Perspectives: Navigating the Journey of Disability. The panel, moderated by Adam Sada CM, Function Head of Disability Care at Thanal, featured insights from several parents and advocates, including V.A. Balakrishnan, Principal of Santhi Sadanam School for Differently Abled, Yousaf Changaroth, Haleema V.K., and Shabina M, an Anganwadi Worker. The panel discussed the challenges and triumphs of navigating life with a child who has a disability, offering valuable perspectives on support systems, advocacy, and the role of educational institutions in empowering families.
The day wrapped up with a lunch break and the continuation of these critical conversations, ensuring that all attendees walked away with a deeper understanding of early intervention and the complex needs of children with disabilities.
The summit, over its two days, provided a comprehensive platform for learning, advocacy, and collaboration, focusing on neurodevelopmental disorders, sensory integration, genetic counseling, mental health, and the perspectives of parents and caregivers navigating the challenges of disability.
The summit provided a platform for learning, collaboration, and advocacy, with a focus on neurodevelopmental disorders, disability rights, and inclusive approaches to early intervention.