Happy New Year 2024 from the IPNA President

Dear members and friends of IPNA,

I hope you had a successful start into the New Year. I would like to take the opportunity to update you on important developments and plans we have for IPNA  in 2024.

I want to begin by extending my heartfelt gratitude to all members who actively participated in our diverse range of activities. Your invaluable contributions to teaching courses, junior master classes, webinars, fellowship and sister unit programs, guideline development, World Kidney Day, and various other initiatives have been truly appreciated

A special thank you is owed to our dedicated committees, whose enthusiasm not only drives the success of ongoing programs but also sparks creativity in designing new and impactful activities. Your commitment is instrumental in fostering the growth and effectiveness of our organization. Once again, thank you to everyone involved for your unwavering support and dedication

We are thrilled to share the news that IPNA is commemorating its 50th anniversary this year! A variety of activities are planned to mark this milestone birthday. Stay tuned for more information.

Also, we are delighted to announce that from this year onward, IPNA membership fees will be commensurate to the economic wealth of the our members’ countries of residence. While there is a slight increase in fees for high-income countries, substantial reductions have been implemented for colleagues in low- to middle-income countries, and those from very low-income countries can now join IPNA free of charge. Additionally, in an effort to encourage junior colleagues worldwide to become part of IPNA, membership fees for all trainees will be generally waived. The new membership subscription will be open this month. We encourage you to spread this information within your units, enabling junior colleagues to benefit from IPNA membership, which includes complimentary online access to the Pediatric Nephrology textbook and various other service

The preparations for the 2025 IPNA Congress in Cape Town are in full swing. Mignon and her organizing team have exerted tremendous efforts to make the congress an unforgettable event and Rukshana, Mark and Pierre have worked with the scientific committee to craft an outstanding program. It’s important to note that the congress is scheduled to take place already in February (19th to 23rd), during the Southern hemisphere summer. To facilitate timely planning, please be prepared for an abstract deadline no later than the end of May. Mark your calendars and get ready for a remarkable gathering in Cape Town! www. ipna2025.or

Given the rapid advances of clinical research and medicine and the global coverage of IPNA, it has been questioned whether the traditional triannual interval of IPNA congresses is still appropriate or whether we should follow the example of other global societies and hold more frequent meetings in the future. A preliminary survey performed last spring revealed that two-thirds of our members are inclined towards holding the IPNA Congress every two years. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the pros and cons, and the IPNA Council engaged in thorough discussions on the matter. The councilors voted decisively, with an 83% majority, in favor of transitioning to biannual congresses. To implement this new schedule, the General Assembly’s approval is required, necessitating a double majority. To expedite the process, a virtual General Assembly is scheduled for February 5th, allowing for final discussions and subsequent e-voting. The meeting will be conducted twice on the same day, accommodating the diverse time zones of IPNA members worldwide.

Additionally, we have exciting initiatives in progress. Our Education Committee is currently working on an international postgraduate training curriculum in pediatric nephrology. This curriculum aims to create a cohesive program of online education tailored for junior colleagues worldwide. Furthermore, our recently established Research Committee is actively developing a dedicated Clinical Research Academy designed specifically for pediatric nephrologists. 

We anticipate launching both programs in the year 2024. Comprehensive details about these endeavors will be elucidated through upcoming webinars and newsletters. Stay tuned for more information on these valuable educational and research initiatives.

Once again, heartfelt thanks to everyone for your dedicated efforts in making the world a better place for young people with kidney disease. 

Wishing you all a successful and fulfilling 2024!

Franz Schaefer, MD

IPNA President