This year’s theme, “Acceptance in Action: From Family to Classroom to Workplace to Public Spaces,” focuses on moving from awareness to creating environments where individuals on the autism spectrum are supported and empowered across different settings.
The two-day conference will be followed by free one-on-one family consultations with specialists.
Over the years, the GTCO Autism Programme has become a leading platform for autism advocacy and inclusion across West Africa.
The programme brings together healthcare professionals, therapists, educators, policymakers, caregivers, and families to advance understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders, ASDs.
Through sustained engagement, the initiative has supported conversations around acceptance, accessibility, and the support systems needed to improve outcomes for individuals on the spectrum.
The 2026 edition will feature expert-led discussions, workshops, and free consultation sessions delivered by leading local and international specialists in developmental and behavioural sciences.
Key focus areas include early intervention, behavioural therapy, communication strategies, inclusive education, and caregiver support.
The Conference schedule are:
– Nigeria: Conference holds on July 27–28 at the Muson Centre, Lagos. Free one-on-one family consultations will follow from July 29 to August 1 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.
– Ghana: The programme opens with a workshop on August 4 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, followed by free consultations at the same venue from August 5 to 8.
Commenting on the programme, Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said the initiative reflects years of commitment to supporting families.
“Sixteen years ago, we set out to help families navigate a journey that too often felt isolating. Today, this programme stands as proof of what sustained commitment can achieve. This year’s theme, ‘Acceptance in Action,’ challenges all of us to move past good intentions and start making inclusion visible, in the way we design our schools, structure our workplaces, and welcome one another in public spaces,” he said.
He added: “No single institution can build an inclusive society alone. It takes families willing to advocate, educators willing to adapt, employers willing to open doors, and policymakers willing to act. Our role is to keep bringing the right expertise and resources to the table, so that every individual on the autism spectrum has a genuine chance to participate fully and confidently in everyday life.”
Registration for the conference and consultations is open to families, caregivers, educators, and professionals.
