Completed Events
Online lecture 1: Understanding neurodiversity–exploring the spectrum of human thinking
25 July 2025
The lecture was delivered by Dr Thomas Kishore M, an expert from NIMHANS. It emphasized cognitive differences as national variations, and not deficits. It highlighted the importance of developmentally sensitive approaches to diagnosis and classroom management. Light was shed on the gaps and limitations in Indian disability laws, in comparison with international frameworks like the IDEA act. Through interactive discussions, participants got a peek into how inclusive environments are fostered, and how to appropriately respond to neurodivergent behaviours. It introduced a strengths-based, non-pathological understanding of Neurodiversity.
Online lecture 2: Why neurodivergent students miss school–hidden barriers and supportive strategies
11 August 2025
Delivered by Prof. Jennifer Gillis Mattson from Binghamton University, this lecture explored the reasons and factors behind frequent school absenteeism when it comes to neurodivergent students. It highlighted underlying causes such as anxiety, disrupted routines, emotional dysregulation and so on. Evidence-based frameworks like the KITes model guided the interventions. The discussion emphasized how attendance reflects the student’s emotional well-being and sense of safety, and practical strategies such as flexible schooling were shared, to create supportive educational ecosystems for neurodivergent students.
Online lecture 3: Legal literacy and policy implementation–RPWD act, NEP 2020 and inclusive education mandates
24 November 2025
Delivered by Dr. Sapna S, Dean of the school of law, CHRIST Deemed To Be University, the session focused on spreading awareness on the key legal frameworks governing inclusive education in India. Translating complex policies into implementable strategies, participants were given clarity on rights, entitlements and institutional responsibilities in supporting individuals with disabilities. The discussion involved hope and emphasis on the importance of legal mandates getting translated into meaningful inclusion. The session empowered participants to advocate for inclusive practices and uphold the rights of neurodivergent individuals.
Online lecture 4: Why some children talk late–when to wait and when to act
02 March 2026
Delivered by Dr. Prathibha Karanth, the CEO of The ComDEALL Trust, this lecture provided a comprehensive understanding of early communication development and delays in children. It highlighted the role of Biological, social and emotional factors contributing to communication delays. Practical resources like the ComDEALL early intervention programme and app were introduced, along with their role in early detection and intervention. The lecture emphasized the importance of early identification and informed decision-making to promote the best long-term outcomes for children and their communication skills.
Inclusion fair: International day of persons with disabilities
03 December 2025
The fair served as an engaging platform to promote awareness, inclusion and community participation. In collaboration with Christ Special School and Cogfit, CNRI set up an interactive stall showcasing handmade products created by neurodivergent students, highlighting their vocational skills and creativity. Cognitive assessment based games, hands-on engagement and dialogue helped the fair facilitate greater public awareness, appreciation of neurodiversity and inclusive community practices.
Extension to Global Autism Convention
21-25 January 2026
CNRI actively contributed to Global Autism Conference initiatives, focusing on promoting awareness and advocacy around neurodiversity. Involving student-led participation, interactive engagement, dissemination of knowledge on inclusive practices within institutional platforms, the multiple-day convention facilitated conversations around neurodevelopmental conditions, inclusion and the importance of supportive environments. Participants were also provided with experimental learning opportunities, activities to grow team work skills and communication and advocacy skills. The contribution reflected CNRI’s commitment to extending its impact beyond academic spaces, into community oriented engagement.
