AIOTA’s 62nd National Conference Concludes Successfully in Goa

PANAJI:
The All India Occupational Therapists’ Association (AIOTA) successfully concluded its 62nd National Conference, OTICON 2025, held from February 21st to 23rd at the Kala Academy in Panaji, Goa. The three-day conference, themed “Translating Research into Policy and Clinical Practices in Occupational Therapy,” drew over 1300 participants, including students and professionals from across the country.

The conference commenced with a pre-conference workshop led by international resource person Teresa May Benson, setting the stage for insightful discussions and knowledge sharing. The inaugural function was graced by distinguished guests, including Sadanand Shet Tanawade, Member of Parliament-Rajya Sabha, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Dr. Yagna U. Shukla, Chairperson of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), served as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Samantha Shann, President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, was the Special Guest. Prof. Dr. S.M Bandekar, Dean-Goa Medical College & Hospital Conference Patron was also present.

During the inaugural address and throughout the event the common theme was highlighting the need for valid, reliable and quality research to influence policy change. The conference also featured scientific presentations and programs tailored for students.

The valedictory function was attended by with Advocate General Devidas Pangam as the Chief Guest. Prof. Dr. S.M. Bandekar, Dean of Goa Medical College & Hospital, Goa, was the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Samantha Shann returned as the Special Guest. Awards were given to the participants for their achievements in competitive events, scientific presentations, and cultural programs.

The AIOTA executive committee members actively participated in the event, contributing to its success. The key AIOTA officials, attended were Dr. Pankaj Bajpai, President of AIOTA and Organizing Chairperson of OTICON 2025; Dr. Joseph Sunny, Honorary Secretary of AIOTA; Dr. Jyothika Bijlani, Dean of ACOT, AIOTA and Conference Coordinator; Dr. Sandip Sardessai, Director (Academic) of Goa Medical College & Hospital, Goa; Dr. Ganapathy Sankar U., Executive Committee Member of AIOTA and Scientific Chairperson of OTICON 2025; and Dr. Vivek P. Vajaratkar, Organizing Secretary of OTICON 2025.