The Association of Nigerian Educational Psychologists (ANEP) will gather educators, psychologists, therapists, researchers, school leaders, and parents from across Africa and beyond for the maiden edition of the African Neurodiversity Conference (TANC) from October 20 to 21.
The two-day hybrid event, themed “Shifting Minds, Implementing Actions,” will take place at Children’s International School in Lagos, with virtual access available for international participants. Sessions are scheduled to commence daily at 8:30 AM.
Organisers emphasize that the summit aims to bridge the gap between theoretical awareness and actionable support for neurodivergent individuals across African classrooms, homes, and healthcare settings.
”ANEP hopes the conference will help build a community of educators, families, and professionals equipped to provide more effective support for neurodivergent people,” stated ANEP spokesperson Eniola Shakirah Ayinde-Olajobi. Organising Committee Chair Mrs. Chioma Gabriel added that the gathering provides a vital platform to address the systemic and practical challenges schools face in identifying and supporting learners with diverse developmental needs.
The conference features prominent regional and international speakers, including keynote addresses by Prof. Bolanle Olawuyi of the University of Ilorin, Dr. Sharon Brown, Dr. Martin Bloomfield, and Prof. Julie Washington.
Interactive panels and breakouts will be led by advocacy figures including Tobiloba Ajayi, Solape Azazi, Omotoke Olugbode, and Clarice Jackson.
Sessions focused on Policy & Systemic Change, Literacy & Learning, Assessment & Diagnosis, Lived Experience, and a specialised Young Minds Forum. A youth-focused stream hosted by Funmi Unuajefe, designed to empower students to advocate for inclusion and establish neurodiversity clubs within participating schools.
Discussions examining the lived experiences of families raising neurodivergent children alongside practical interventions for African classrooms.
Registration remains open for both in-person and virtual attendees as stakeholders prepare to outline actionable commitments for neurodiversity advocacy across the continent.
