The Scientific and Organising Committee (SOC) invites you to submit a proposal for a session to form part of the programme of the congress.
The IEC has a well-deserved reputation for scientific and educational excellence and the SOC would like you to contribute to this.

Parallel Sessions are structured from and based on a variety of themes selected from session proposals submitted.

There is also the option to submit a proposal under the following:

Challenge Sessions: Addressing a Challenge
These types of Parallel Sessions focus on a challenge presented at the beginning of the session by a person with a lived experience of epilepsy (someone who has an epilepsy, carer/family member or advocate). Ideally the second presentation would provide the latest basic science/neurobiological understanding of the challenge. The final presentations would then provide details on the current best practice (diagnostic, clinical, psychosocial and/or surgical depending on the issue) being used to address the challenge. The subsequent panel discussion and audience interaction would then explore how well we are meeting the challenge and if further research, deeper understanding and/or different approaches are needed.

Controversy Session: Exploring a Controversy
These types of Parallel Sessions would be focused on an area of controversy - an issue or practice where the evidence is not clear cut and different theories and/or approaches currently prevail. An initial overview of the issue would be presented with subsequent presentations focusing on the differing aspects. Panel interaction with the audience would then aim to stimulate discussion and debate.

Solution Session: Finding a Solution
With the successful adoption of the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological disorders, the SOC is keen to support Parallel Sessions that present practical solutions to closing the global treatment gap. Sessions focused on sharing real life examples of successes in improving diagnosis, treatment and/or care, particularly in lower resource settings, would be welcome.
The aim of the SOC is to create a comprehensive programme which will encompass topical and varied themes. Please note that the SOC will be responsible for the final selection of sessions and that presentations and/or speakers may be changed or amended to fit the overall programme as the SOC deems it appropriate.

In the form you will be asked to provide:

• a session title
• a short summary (up to 300 words) for the session, including objectives, reason for choosing the topic, anticipated learning outcome for the audience,
• details for each presentation, including the title and suggested speaker
• all proposals must include and Early Career speaker
• all proposals must include a person with lived experience (PPI)

DEADLINE: 5 April 2024

IMPORTANT - Instructions for Session Proposals

Please review the following important points before preparing a session proposal:

1. Sessions are 90 minutes; please prepare your proposal with this in mind. Generally, Sessions consist of 3 or 4 presentations, but there can exceptionally be more presentations in the session.
2. The SOC welcomes proposals for sessions from all people in the field of epilepsy. Proposals from young people in the early stage of their career are especially encouraged.
3. Include the name and contact details of the person submitting the proposal.
4. The person submitting a proposal does not have to be included in the programme proposed. However, all correspondence will be sent to the person submitting the proposal and it will be his/her responsibility to pass the information to the proposer.
5. A person/group proposing a session should have substantial experience in the proposed topic.
6. Proposals for sessions should allow for time for discussion and interaction with the audience.
7. When suggesting speakers, it is essential to ensure regional, geographical, gender and age diversity.
8. With a few exceptions, each individual may only appear twice as a speaker and/or a Chair during the congress sessions (not including the teaching programme or satellite sessions).
9. Whenever appropriate, sessions should cover both paediatric and adult aspects of a specific topic or even reflect the evolution throughout the lifetime. Where applicable, the inclusion of complementary presentations addressing clinical and basic science is encouraged.
10. Whenever appropriate, sessions should include social aspects of the topic.
11. The inclusion of young epileptologists in every session (under 40 years of age) is expected.
12. Session proposals may only be submitted using this online form; proposals will not be accepted if submitted in any other way.

Deadline for submission of proposals: Friday 5 April 2024.

Please note:
- The SOC will review all proposals and will be responsible for the final selection/creation of sessions. Presentations and/or speakers may be changed or amended to fit the overall programme as the SOC deems it appropriate.
- All proposals will be given due consideration, but the submission of a proposal does not guarantee approval by the SOC.
- Notification of the SOC’s decision will be made following the review process, in late autumn 2024.