INTERNATIONAL GUESTS COME TOGETHER TO SHARE EXPERIENCES, INSIGHTS, AND PRACTICES FROM AROUND THE WORLD
The UNITE 2026 International Networking Session brings together invited international guests, organisations, and Oak Foundation Scholars from across the region and beyond to share how they support individuals with dyslexia and other learning differences within their own countries and communities.
Held at the conclusion of Conference Day 1, this special session provides a meaningful platform for international dialogue, professional exchange, and relationship-building. Through short presentations and open discussion, participants will explore diverse perspectives and approaches in dyslexia support, inclusive education, advocacy, intervention, teacher training, and community outreach. The session will also include a sharing on DAS International’s Oak Foundation Funded Training initiatives, opening conversations on future collaboration, awareness and capacity building, and shared learning across countries.
Through this gathering, DAS International hopes to celebrate the shared commitment and collective efforts of educators, practitioners, organisations, and advocates who are working to create more inclusive opportunities for individuals with dyslexia and other learning differences worldwide.
By invitation only.
Conference participants interested in attending this session can write to unite@das.org.sg
HOSTED BY:
SINGAPORE
DR PRISCILLIA SHEN
Head of DAS International & Director of Community-Based Programmes
Dr Priscillia Shen began her special education journey as an Educational Therapist at the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) in 2005. Her previous experience working closely with struggling learners has allowed her to take on a constructive and practical pedagogical approach in her teaching practice. She is now the Head of DAS International and Director of Community-Based Programmes, where she continues to champion effective, research-informed, inclusive strategies in the classroom. She believes in keeping up with current research and developments in the field to continually refine teaching practices and maintain professional passion. Her research interests are in dyslexia, bilingualism, Chinese language, and Mathematics.
SINGAPORE
DR GEETHA SHANTHA RAM
Director SpLD Assessment Services, English Language and Literacy Division & Staff Professional Development, Registrar, Register of Educational Therapists (Asia), APJDD Executive Editor,
Dyslexia Association of Singapore, DAS Academy Academic & Examination Board Member
Dr Geetha Shantha Ram joined the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) in 2004. Since 2013, she holds the position of Director of the English Language and Literacy (ELL) Division. In her capacity as Director, Geetha has played a key role in enhancing the ELL Programmes, which include the Main Literacy Programme (MLP), through the implementation of the Essential Literacy Approach and the integration of the MLP curriculum. Geetha is committed to providing targeted support for students with specific needs, which led her to develop two additional programmes: iReaCH, which offers higher-order skills intervention, and iStudySmart(TM), which guides upper secondary and post-secondary students in developing critical executive functioning and study skills. Her oversight extends to the SpLD Assessment Services and Staff Professional Development division, where she has been instrumental in developing professional pathways and ensuring quality assurance of all educational efforts. Geetha also serves as the head of the DAS Research Committee and is the Registrar of the Register of Educational Therapists (Asia) (RETA). Prior to her current role as Director, Geetha served as Assistant Director of the DAS Academy and continues to share her expertise by presenting at various local and international conferences. Geetha holds a Doctorate in Education, a Master’s in English, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (Distinction). Her recent research explores twice-exceptionality – the coexistence of giftedness and learning disabilities, which acknowledges the strengths and immense potential of learners with learning differences. With almost two decades of experience supporting individuals with dyslexia, Geetha is dedicated to providing high-quality services that redefine their potential and encourage them to appreciate their unique abilities.
SINGAPORE
CEO - Dyslexia Association of Singapore
Co-Editor, The Routledge International Handbook of Dyslexia in Education
Siang Lee joined the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) in 2001 and became its Chief Executive Officer in 2014. He sits on the Board of DAS subsidiaries, DAS Academy and DAS International. Siang served on the Board of the US-based International Dyslexia Association and was the Chair of its Global Partners Programme Committee from 2016 to 2018 and he still remains a member of the Global Partners Committee representing Singapore. He has been awarded the International Dyslexia Association’s Excellence in Leadership Award 2020. Siang obtained his degree from the National University of Singapore via the sponsorship of the Singapore Armed Forces. He holds a Certificate in Dyslexia Studies and a Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education and in Specific Learning Differences from London Metropolitan University, as well as a Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management from the Singapore Institute of Management and an MBA from the University of Western Australia.