Chandigarh, April 26
The Pediatric Neurology Unit of PGIMER, Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Academy of Pediatric Neurology (AOPN), India, hosted a landmark Pediatric Epilepsy Research Symposium commemorating 25 years of pioneering research in infantile spasms at PGIMER. A central highlight of the event was the installation of the new AOPN board members. Prof. Jitendra Kumar Sahu, Pediatric Neurology Unit, PGIMER, was formally installed as the National Chairperson. In his address, Prof. Sahu articulated the association’s vision, “Every Child’s Brain Matters, Everywhere,” reaffirming AOPN’s mission to advance equitable neurological care for children across India and globally.
The ceremony was graced by Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, as Chief Guest, and Prof. Pratibha Singhi, President of the International Child Neurology Association, as Guest of Honour. Distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Anoop Verma (National Coordinator, AOPN), Dr. Vinit Wankhede (Secretary General, AOPN), Prof. Naveen Sankhyan (Organizing Chair), Dr Priyanka Madaan (Organizing secretary) and several board members across country lent their presence to the occasion. The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Symposium, first of its kind brought together over 130 participants, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and innovation in the field of childhood epilepsy.
The event featured diverse research presentations/participation from undergraduate, postgraduate students, faculty in pediatric neurology, neuroradiology, pharmacy, pharmacology, engineering, nursing, and basic sciences. This multidisciplinary participation highlighted the importance of collaborative and translational research in pediatric epilepsy.
Furthermore, in recognition of outstanding contributions to childhood epilepsy research, Prof. Biswaroop Chakrabarty (AIIMS, New Delhi) and Prof. Dipika Bansal (NIPER, SAS Nagar) were felicitated. This milestone initiative positions PGIMER Chandigarh as a leading hub for pediatric epilepsy research, collaboration, and innovation in India.
