INVITATION BY THE LOC CHAIR

The organising committee takes immense pride in hosting the 60th ENT Conference on behalf of the ENT Society.

Our goal is to create a spectacular event that not only celebrates the remarkable 60-year journey of the ENT Society but also fosters meaningful networking opportunities with peers, speakers, and trade professionals.

This remarkable milestone serves as a testament to the rich history and ongoing evolution of our field, as we come together under the overarching theme of "Rooted: Pioneering the Future". In this momentous gathering, we delve into the multifaceted aspects of our profession, exploring the deep-rooted connections between our past, our present, and our vision for a sustainable and innovative future.

The theme of "Rooted" resonates deeply in the practice of Otolaryngology, reminding us that our commitment to the well-being of our patients is firmly grounded in the knowledge and experience passed down through generations. Our roots connect us to a legacy of scientific discovery, medical breakthroughs, and the unwavering dedication to patient care. As we come together to celebrate our 60th Conference, we also emphasise a crucial and contemporary aspect - Sustainability.

Promoting sustainability through the establishment of vegetable gardens and education is a commendable initiative with wide-reaching benefits for both the environment and the community. Such a program can help individuals and communities become more self-reliant, reduce their carbon footprint, and raise awareness about sustainable living.

Incorporating vegetable gardens and education into sustainability efforts is a powerful way to create positive change at the grassroots level. By fostering environmental consciousness, promoting self-sufficiency, and enhancing community well-being, this approach contributes to a more sustainable future for individuals and the planet as a whole.

Pharmaceutical companies, trade partners, and sponsors can seize the chance to promote their brand and products while demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. This allows them to spotlight their company and its heritage in alignment with the "Rooted" theme on exhibition stands. These innovative stand designs will be generously contributed to communities.

One of the conference's objectives is to establish a comfortable and collegial atmosphere, fostering a high-level interdisciplinary exchange of the latest research highlights, collaborations, and effective networking opportunities among researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and representatives of consumer organizations. We extend a warm invitation to our colleagues from other African countries to collaborate with us in this endeavour.

With our best regards, we look forward to meeting you all during the conference.

Prof Mashudu Tshifularo

Conference Convenor (Chair)

on behalf of the University of Pretoria

for the ENT Society