UKZN’s Occupational Therapy (OT) lecturer, Ms Nontobeko Lungelo Gumede, was thrilled to participate in the 5th International Developmental Pediatrics Association (IDPA) Congress between 28 November to 01 December 2023.
The mission of IDPA is to create an international scientific platform to connect and support clinicians, researchers, and policymakers working in the field of Developmental Pediatrics and Allied Disciplines from around the world to address the inequity in how children are supported to develop to their full potential.
Theme of the congress was: “Our Children Our Future: From Vulnerability to Resilience.”
Gumede contributed to the proceedings by delivering her e-poster presentation, engaging in discussions with the other interprofessional team members, and fostering connections with fellow delegates.
Keynote lecturers and symposiums such as Wheelchair & Seating, WHO-UNICEF Global Report, Family Based Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Scalable Technologies to Understand Child Development and Diagnosis versus Functionality and Participation resonated with her.
Her colleague, OT lecturer, Mr Luther Monareng, said the congress was important because occupational therapists play a critical role in providing interventions that help children meet developmental milestones, overcome sensory challenges, improve their participation and engagement in play and activities of daily living.
‘I am motivated to draw from the congress’s learnings and implement them into our teaching, learning, research, and collaborations,’ Gumede said.
Caption:
Top row (2nd left): Nontobeko Lungelo Gumede
Bottom row (middle): Prof Kirsten Donald (Congress President)
