Empowering lives across our special needs community

12 – 14 January 2027

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Conference Highlights

Dive into our comprehensive range of programs designed to enhance skills and support the special needs community effectively.

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Learning Journeys

Curated learning journeys will give participants a unique opportunity to step beyond the sessions and experience the vibrant special needs ecosystem in Singapore.

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Learning Festival

An engaging poster presentation segment showcasing applied research from across special needs community. Exhibition and networking sessions for interaction and innovation.

Papers

We invite researchers, educators, allied health professionals, and practitioners—both local and overseas—to share your expertise at the 2026 Special Needs Conference.

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Empowering Lives

Welcome to the 2026 Special Needs “Empowering Lives” Conference
Our special needs community deserves lifelong care, support, and celebration. In 2026, we invite you to be part of a meaningful gathering that brings together voices from across the journey—from early education to adulthood.

Whether you’re an Educator, Trainer, Allied Health Professional, Employer, Volunteer, or Caregiver, this conference is your opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute. Discover the milestones, achievements, and evolving needs of our special needs community through engaging sessions, inspiring stories, and collaborative dialogue.

Save the Dates!
Join us on the 12th – 14th January 2027, as we embark on a journey to celebrate through over 50 years of special needs experience in Singapore, highlighting the progress we’ve made and forging new paths ahead.

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“…we have to look out for one another and lift each other up. Only then can we be greater than the sum of our parts”

PM Lawrence WongSingapore

Conference Themes

Beyond inspiring presentations, the conference offers rich, hands-on experiences for every participant. Explore Singapore’s leading special education schools through curated visits, gain fresh perspectives by networking with inclusive employers, policy makers, and community advocates, and immerse yourself in cutting-edge research at our Learning Festival. From practical insights to visionary ideas, this is your chance to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping a more inclusive future.

Smiling man with Down syndrome holding a briefcase in a modern office setting.

Inclusive Employment

Employment is more than a job—it’s dignity, independence, and inclusion. This session brings together employers, advocates, and professionals to share best practices for creating workplaces where individuals with special needs can thrive. Learn how inclusive hiring benefits businesses and communities, and discover success stories that redefine what’s possible.

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Enabling Technology

Technology is a game-changer for accessibility and independence. Explore the latest assistive tools, digital platforms, and innovations that empower individuals with special needs across education, employment, and daily living. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a caregiver seeking practical solutions, this track will show you how technology can open doors to a more inclusive future..

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Mental Health & Emotions

Explore the critical role of mental health in the lives of individuals with special needs and their families. This track dives into practical strategies, therapeutic approaches, and community resources that foster resilience and emotional balance. Educators and Caregivers can learn how to create supportive environments that prioritize well-being for all parties—because thriving minds lead to thriving lives.

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Caregiving and Support

Behind every individual with special needs is a network of caregivers and families who provide unwavering support. This session celebrates their journey while equipping them with tools to manage stress, build strong relationships, and access essential services. Join us to discover how collaboration and compassion can transform caregiving into a sustainable, empowering experience.

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Innovative Teaching & Learning

Education is the foundation of lifelong success. In this track, uncover cutting-edge teaching methods and inclusive learning practices that engage diverse learners. From adaptive curricula to creative classroom techniques, you’ll gain insights that inspire progress and unlock potential—because every learner deserves a pathway to achievement.

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Call for Papers & Presenters

We invite researchers, educators, allied health professionals, and practitioners—both local and overseas—to share your expertise at the 2026 Special Needs Conference.

This is your opportunity to present applied research that is practical, innovative, and transformative, aimed at improving the lives and learning experiences of individuals with special needs. We are looking for papers and presentations that offer real-world solutions, evidence-based strategies, and fresh perspectives across education, employment, mental health, caregiving, and technology.

Join us in shaping meaningful conversations and driving progress in the special needs community. Your insights can inspire change and empower stakeholders to create inclusive environments where everyone thrives.