The 19th Asia Pacific Congress of Paediatrics (APCP 2026), held in collaboration with the 28th Annual Scientific Congress of the Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians (SLCP), was successfully conducted from 26th to 29th July 2026 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo. The Congress brought together paediatricians, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, providing an exceptional platform for scientific exchange, professional networking, and collaboration.
The inauguration was graced by Dr. Joseph Haddad, President of the International Paediatric Association, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour were Dr. Steve Turner, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), UK, and Dr. Niroshini Kennedy, President of the Paediatrics and Child Health Division of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP).
The scientific programme commenced with seven pre-congress workshops, followed by four days of high-quality academic sessions featuring internationally renowned experts. The Congress included 36 oral presentations, 127 rapid oral presentations, and 319 poster presentations, showcasing outstanding research and clinical innovations from the region. A distinguished faculty comprising 70 international speakers and 38 local speakers contributed to a diverse and comprehensive scientific programme covering a wide spectrum of paediatric subspecialties.
The Congress attracted 1,061 delegates, including 439 overseas participants and 622 local participants, making it one of the largest international paediatric meetings ever hosted in Sri Lanka. The remarkable participation, vibrant scientific discussions, and opportunities for international collaboration underscored the success of APCP 2026 and reaffirmed the Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians’ commitment to advancing child health through excellence in education, research, and global partnerships.