In line with its strategy to entrench Johannesburg as a leading international business tourism destination, Lindiwe Kwele (CEO of the Johannesburg Tourism Company), is delighted to welcome the long-awaited and prestigious IPA Congress of Pediatrics - which will be taking place in the Sandton Convention Centre from 4 – 9 August 2010 – to the city.
“This is a significant international convention and we look forward to giving our guests a warm Joburg welcome and an exceptional experience,” says Kwele.
“For the past five years, the JTC Convention Bureau has been hard at work, assisting the convention organisers Kenes International, with everything from technical support to securing favourable room rates in order to make this major global medical forum a reality – we are delighted that all this effort has finally come to fruition for all the parties involved.”
The Congress will be attended by some 3000 paediatric medical professionals from around the world, in many cases accompanied by their partners and families. The convention is supported by meetings, workshops, satellite symposia and an exhibition.
The social programme includes pre-and post convention tours for delegates to experience the variety of leisure options available to them, not only in Johannesburg, but further afield as well.
“The South African Paediatric Association (SAPA) joined with the International Pediatric Association (IPA) to bring this convention to sub-Saharan Africa for the first time and we’re pleased to be joined in the Congress by our African colleagues from the Union of African Pediatric Societies and Associations,” says Professor Keith Bolton, President of the Organising Committee.
“We have put together a scientific programme designed to to fulfill the needs of all our discerning colleagues, with a wide spectrum of the latest information ranging from the most avant-garde science to the priorities facing our least endowed."
"Occurring just five years before the due date of the Millennium Development Goals, with their target of reducing child mortality by two thirds by 2015, this congress will provide crucial insight into vital issues of child health throughout the world.”
Regarding the choice of the Sandton Convention Centre as the location for the convention, Professor Bolton comments: “The SCC has proved to be a modern and comfortable home for many international conventions. The centre is surrounded by a plethora of hotels which range from grand opulence to good budget establishments."
"Sandton is situated close to the refurbished OR Tambo International Airport, the most convenient destination for international carriers, avoiding unnecessary travel connections. South Africa is a tourist destination of your dreams! Experience the unique flora and fauna of Africa in natural reserves, big-game safaris, idyllic beaches, peaceful settings, or jet-set partying: we can accommodate every recreational need. "
"We look forward to sharing our hospitable Rainbow Nation with our international colleagues and guests!” comments Professor Bolton.
