The KMCH Department of Occupational Therapy and KMCH College of Occupational Therapy jointly organized a vibrant celebration for World Autism Awareness Day 2025, KMCH Medical College Hospital. Centered around the theme “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”, the event brought together over 70 children with autism and their parents, creating a warm, inclusive, and memorable environment.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Dr. Nalla G. Palaniswami, Chairman & Managing Director, KMCH; Dr. Thavamani D. Palaniswami, Managing Trustee, Dr. NGP Research and Educational Trust; Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami, Executive Director, KMCH; Dr. A.N. Murugan, Medical Director, KMCH; Maj Gen (Dr) R. Ravikumar (Retd), AVSM, Dean, KMCH Institute of Health Sciences and Research; Dr. S. Ramkumar, Medical Superintendent; Dr. K. Rajendran, Head of the Department of Paediatrics; Dr. Uma kanthan M, Professor, Department of Paediatrics, KMCH Institute of Health Science and Research and Dr. Sujata Missal, Head of the Department – Occupational Therapy, Kovai Medical Centre and Hospital Ltd & S. G. Praveen, Principal, –KMCH College of Occupational Therapy.
The celebration featured a series of engaging activities, including a fashion show Competition, Special Dance Performances, a Talent Showcase, and interactive fun games that encouraged enthusiastic participation from both children and their families and posters displaying early signs of autism, role of OT & Speech Therapy and inclusion of children with autism presentation by undergraduate and postgraduate students of KMCH College of Occupational Therapy.
A highlight of the day was the multidisciplinary panel discussion focusing on early diagnosis, intervention strategies, and the need for a holistic approach to autism care.
The expert panel included Dr. Ashwath D (Paediatrician), Dr. Sudhakar Karunakaran (Paediatric Neurologist), Dr. Pradeep Kumar M (Medical Geneticist), Dr. Sathyaseelan M (Psychiatrist), S. Sugi (Professor and Vice Principal, Occupational Therapy), and Shalini (Speech Therapist), with the session moderated by Dr. Madhubala S.
The discussion offered valuable insights and emphasized the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, educators, and families.
As a gesture of appreciation, all participants received gifts, while winners of the various competitions were awarded trophies and special prizes.
Parents who enthusiastically joined the fun games were also recognized with appreciation gifts, contributing to the spirit of togetherness and celebration.
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