THE 3^RD GLOBAL AUTISM CONVENTION

The 3rd Global Autism Convention (GAC) 2026, held with partner organizations from 21–25 January 2026 at St. John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, concluded successfully, leaving behind not only the record of a well-executed event but the imprint of a shared journey—one shaped by listening, learning, and collective commitment.

The path to GAC 2026 began even before the Convention opened its doors. In the weeks leading up to the event, two online “Road to GAC” webinars created early spaces for dialogue, bringing together participants from across regions and time zones- one from Dr. Daniel Fung from Singapore and the other from Dr. Preeti Jacob from Sydney, Australia. These conversations helped frame the questions that mattered most and set a reflective tone that carried forward into the in-person Convention.

Over five days, GAC 2026 became a meeting ground for clinicians, researchers, educators, therapists, caregivers, self-advocates, policymakers, and civil society actors. What unfolded was more than a series of sessions—it was a sustained conversation on autism across the lifespan, grounded in science, shaped by lived experience, and attentive to cultural and contextual realities, particularly within the Global South.

Through plenary addresses, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive forums, participants engaged deeply with themes of inclusion, dignity, rights, and responsibility. There were many paper and poster presentations from across the globe, and each one brought out aspects of Autism that were meaningful and enriching for the participants. An art and book exhibition, showcasing the creativity and talent of children, was an integral part of GAC 2026 and drew enthusiastic participation, becoming one of the most popular and engaging spaces of the Convention.

The Convention was enriched by the presence of our international speakers as well as the speakers from India, whose contributions brought global perspectives into close conversation with local realities. Their sessions reflected not only expertise and scholarship, but humility, generosity, and a willingness to listen. By sharing research, practice wisdom, and lived experience, they helped bridge disciplines and geographies, reminding us that while contexts may differ, the commitment to autistic persons and their families is shared.

The response to GAC 2026 was overwhelming—each session marked by thoughtful engagement, searching questions, and a palpable sense of purpose. The eagerness to fill the halls and participate in every session reflected a deep thirst for knowledge and for skills that participants were keen to carry back to their own workspaces and communities.

This spirit was further reflected in the launch of several important resources during the Convention, including the Digital Souvenir, the Grandparents’ Guide to Autism, and a Coffee Table Book titled “One Thing I Want to Tell You About Autism”. These publications seek to carry forward the voices, reflections, and learnings of GAC into homes, classrooms, clinics, and communities.

The successful completion of GAC 2026 was made possible by the quiet, consistent, and often unseen efforts of many—partner institutions, donors, sponsors, advisory board members, volunteers, advocacy groups, and collaborating organizations. Their collective dedication ensured that the Convention was not only efficiently organized but also thoughtful, welcoming, and anchored in shared values.

As GAC 2026 comes to a close, it does not signal an ending. Rather, it marks a continuation - of conversations begun, partnerships strengthened, and responsibilities renewed. The Convention reaffirmed a shared belief: that meaningful change is possible when knowledge is shared generously, when lived experience is centred, and when we work together to build communities and systems that are truly inclusive.

Together, we move forward.