IConS XII Marks 25 Years of Advancing Schizophrenia Research and Mental Health Practice
Chennai, August 2026: The Schizophrenia Research Foundation (I) will host the 12th edition of the International Conference on Schizophrenia (IConS XII) from 20–22 August 2026 at The Savera Hotel, Chennai, marking 25 years since the conference’s first edition.
Held biennially by Schizophrenia Research Foundation, IConS is an international forum bringing together researchers, clinicians, mental-health professionals and experts to exchange knowledge and explore emerging developments in schizophrenia and mental health research and practice. The conference features plenary lectures, symposia, workshops and poster presentations, fostering interdisciplinary and international dialogue.
This year’s conference, themed “Innovations in Mental Health: Research and Practice,” features an extensive scientific programme comprising pre-conference workshops, the 6th Dr Sarada Menon Oration, plenary sessions, symposia, a Spotlight Debate and poster presentations.
Inauguration and Silver Jubilee Celebration
The inaugural ceremony of IConS XII will be held on Thursday, 20 August 2026 at 6:45 PM at The Savera Hotel, Chennai, marking the Silver Jubilee of IConS.
Dr. Ashoo Grover, Scientist G & Head, Delivery Research Division, ICMR, as Chief Guest, and Dr. Darez Ahamed, IAS, Secretary to the Government of Tamil Nadu, Health and Family Welfare Department, as Guest of Honour. The evening will also feature the announcement of the STELAR Award and the 6th Dr Sarada Menon Oration, delivered by internationally renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist Professor Matcheri S. Keshavan of Harvard Medical School, followed by dinner.
Three Days of Scientific Exchange
The scientific program from 20–22 August brings together internationally recognised experts and researchers to explore advances in schizophrenia and mental health, innovative clinical practices, emerging evidence and future directions in psychiatry.
The symposia will cover diverse areas including recent-onset psychosis, physical health, youth mental health, lived experience, digital mental health, supported employment, recovery, cognitive impairment, integrative medicine, neurocognitive research, neuromodulation, early psychosis and community mental health interventions.
A key highlight will be the Spotlight Debate on “Renaming Schizophrenia,” moderated by Professor Matcheri S. Keshavan, exploring perspectives on diagnosis, identity and the impact of language.
An Invitation from SCARF
Dr. Sridhar Vaitheswaran, Director, SCARF, extends a warm invitation to members of the media, mental-health professionals and the wider community to join the IConS XII inaugural ceremony and Silver Jubilee celebration on 20 August at 6:45 PM, followed by dinner at The Savera Hotel, Chennai.
The celebration marks 25 years of IConS and its continuing contribution to advancing research, knowledge and practice in schizophrenia and mental health.
For more information about IConS XII and the conference programme, visit: www.iconsofscarf.org
Media / Conference Enquiries: Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF) Email: iconsofscarf@scarfindia.org
Website: www.iconsofscarf.org
