Event Details

Two-day Workshop on Understanding Autism Under the aegis of Dr. Ramdas Pai and Mrs. Vasanthi Pai Endowment Fund

FROM 21 Nov 2025 TO 22 Nov 2025

Venue : MEU Hall, SMIMS Building, Level 4 @ 10:00 AM

SMCPT has organized a Hands-on Workshop on Understanding Autism with focus on autism awareness, early detection and training program under the aegis of Dr. Ramdas Pai and Mrs. Vasanthi Pai Endowment Fund. As part of our curriculum and ongoing commitment to education about Persons with Disabilities SMCPT believes that a comprehensive understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder is crucial for Health professionals.
SMCPT had invited two eminent leaders and resource person from Action for Autism a not-for-profit organisation that has pioneered the autism movement in South Asia and who have dedicated their life to the care for autism.

Speakers

Dr. Nidhi Singhal is a clinical psychologist and autism expert with over two decades of experience in assessment, intervention, research, and training. As Director of Research & Training at Action for Autism, she has led national and international initiatives on autism awareness, inclusive education, and adult support. A recognized government advisor and WHO committee member, Dr. Singhal brings deep expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders, family therapy, and curriculum development, making her a highly respected voice in the field.

Sheeba Naqvi is an RCI-accredited Special Educator with over 25 years of experience in inclusive education, counselling, and family therapy. She has served in leadership roles across India and Oman, including as Vice Principal at MBCN Noida and In-Charge at Care & Special Education, Muscat. A dynamic trainer and speaker, she has pioneered early intervention programs, parent support initiatives, and community outreach campaigns. Ms. Sheeba Naqvi ma’am brings deep expertise in autism, learning disabilities, and inclusive practices, making her a valued contributor to national and international seminars.

Day 1 (21st November)

The workshop was inaugurated by the Guest of Honour Pro-VC and Dean of SMU, Dr. Murlidhar V. Pai. He welcomed the speakers and highlighted the importance to learn about Autism. Chairperson of the workshop Prof. Nikita Joshi Sonowal then welcomed all Speakers and Guest of Honour.

In the first day the participants learned about the basics of Autism Spectrum Disorder, the difference in the features seen in comparison to other neurodevelopmental disorders, brain activity and sensory issues by Dr. Nidhi and Introduction to Autism Screening Tools and Functional assessment techniques by Ms. Sheeba Naqvi.

The afternoon concluded with a session on “Strategies on Handling Challenging Behaviour of Children with Autism”.

Day 2 (22nd November)

The second day started with a brief revision of the previous session. The day continued with Dr. Nidhi and Ms. Sheeba Ma’am addressing the Frequently asked questions and other confusions of the participant.

The participants were then divided into groups to practice the screening tools and clear their doubts on its administration. While some groups crafted Autism Strategy Tools as taught by the Speakers the previous day. The groups then presented their action plans and were given valuable suggestion by the speakers. The participants thoroughly enjoyed and were enlightened with the information on Autism and discussion held by the speakers.

The session ended with felicitation of the Speakers by Prof. Nikita Joshi Sonowal.