The Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association announces OTICON 2024, the 61st Annual National Conference of All India Occupational Therapists Association (AIOTA). The event is scheduled to take place from January 19th to 21st, 2024, at Gokulam Park Hotel in Kaloor.
This year’s theme, “Occupations and Occupational Science: Creating ‘Magic’ in Occupational Therapy,” reflects the commitment of the conference to explore the latest innovations, technologies, strategies, and solutions in Occupational Therapy. The conference which will have 1000+ participants from 15+ countries aims to provide a platform for researchers and practitioners to share knowledge and experiences directly.
In collaboration with the National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (NIPMR), Irinjalakuda, and National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) the conference will feature ‘Chiraku’ – Free Pediatric Disability Screening and Parental Training. This comprehensive program includes free assessments of physical and mental growth for children, coupled with educational sessions for parents and teachers.
This all-encompassing program incorporates complimentary assessments to specifically target the worries voiced by parents/guardians regarding the physical, mental, and behavioral well-being of their children.
OTICON 2024 is a flagship event by AIOTA and is set to be the largest and most significant Occupational Therapy gathering. The conference will offer an excellent opportunity for attendees to learn from industry experts and professionals. The three-day program will include scientific paper presentations by nearly 15 invited speakers, along with almost 30 research papers and poster presentations by students.
“OTICON has historically been a transformative event. We are delighted to host OTICON 2024 in Kerala after ten years. The 2013 event had a significant impact, leading to the introduction of occupational therapy courses for the first time in Kerala in institutions like National Institute of Speech and Hearing and National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. It also paved the way for recruiting occupational therapists in government projects and services,” said Dr. Joseph Sunny, President of the Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association.
Occupational Therapy is a crucial healthcare profession dedicated to helping individuals of all ages overcome challenges hindering their participation in daily life due to disease, injury, or disability. By promoting independence and functional skills, Occupational Therapy seeks to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
In addition to the conference and training program, various cultural programs, including street plays by students from nearly 15 colleges, will be featured.
Dr. Joseph Sunny, Organizing Secretary, OTICON-2024, Dr. Mary Philip, Vice President, Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association and Dr Anu John, Secretary, Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association, spoke at the Press conference held in Ernakulam Press Club.
