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Early child development: The next wave in global child health

Time slot
Tuesday 12 May 2026 - 10:45-12:00
Room
Hall 1
Session type
Workshop

About this workshop

Globally, 250 million children under five face risks of impaired physical and neurological development, particularly in low- and lower-middle income countries. Despite improvements in survival, early developmental needs remain underfunded, with minimal investment in the first six years of life, which are critical for lifelong health, education, and economic outcomes. As more newborns survive, undetected and unsupported developmental challenges pose urgent health and societal burdens.

This workshop positions Early Child Development (ECD) as a vital global health priority, drawing on RCPCH Global partnerships in Lebanon, Nigeria, and Rwanda, and invites UK clinicians to explore cross-sector collaboration and advocate for greater ECD investment.

Speakers

  • Dr Oluwatosin Eunice Olorunmoteni - Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC)
  • Dr Doug Simkiss    - Honorary Associate Clinical Professor in Child Health, University of Warwick
  • Professor Melissa Gladstone - Professor in Neurodevelopmental Paediatrics and International Child Health, University of Liverpool
  • Ms Suzanna Bright - Programme Manager, RCPCH
Big picture: Global, sustainability and climate Research. policy, standards and guidelines