Call for Abstracts

Theme

Rooted in Culture, Driven by Science: Advancing Inclusive Autism Services Across Africa

The PACA 2026 Organizing Committee invites professionals, researchers, parents, self-advocates, educators, policymakers, and service providers to submit abstracts for presentation at the 4th Pan African Congress on Autism.

This is a unique opportunity to showcase culturally informed, evidence-based, and community-led practices that are transforming autism care across Africa.

Conference Themes

Submissions should align with at least one of the following thematic areas:

1. Culturally Responsive Practices and Indigenous Wisdom
2. Evidence-Based Interventions and Therapies
3. Policy, Law, Advocacy, and Systems Strengthening
4. Autism Research, Data, and Innovation in Africa
5. Inclusive Education and School-Based Supports
6. Transition Planning, Adult Services, and Employment
7. Family Empowerment and Parent-Led Solutions
8. Mental Health and Co-occurring Conditions
9. Voices from the Spectrum: Lived Experience and Self-Advocacy
10. Faith, Community, and Autism Support Networks

Abstract Submission Requirements

Each submission must include:

• Title of the Presentation
• Presenter(s) Name(s), Affiliations, and Country
• Email Contact
• Presentation Format (choose one):
  • Oral Presentation (45 mins)
  • Workshop / Masterclass (60–90 mins)
  • Panel Discussion (60 mins)
  • Poster Presentation
  • Lightning Talk (5–10 mins)
• Abstract Body (250–300 words):
  • Purpose and background of your topic
  • Methods, interventions, or approach used
  • Key outcomes, innovations, or lessons learned
  • Relevance to the conference theme
• Learning Objectives (3–5 actionable takeaways)
• Short Bio (100–150 words for each presenter)

Important Dates

• Abstract Submission Deadline: October 15, 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: December 5, 2025
• Final Presentation Materials Due: February 28, 2026

Submission Process

Submit your abstract via our official form on:

or via email (if difficulties with the above link) to:

Review Criteria

Submissions will be reviewed based on:

• Relevance to the conference theme
• Clarity and originality
• Cultural sensitivity and contextual appropriateness
• Scientific or practical value
• Representation from diverse voices, including autistic individuals, families, and low-resource communities

We Encourage Submissions From:

• Emerging researchers and young professionals
• Organizations serving underrepresented populations
• Multilingual and community-based projects
• Collaborative teams across countries or disciplines