DONARTE 2026

We are pleased to invite you to the V International Conference DONARTE 2026, organized by the DONARTE Association for Organ Donation and Transplantation ETS together with the Anesthesia and Intensive Care units of the University of Messina and AOU Policlinico Gaetano Martino.

The conference is named after two children whose stories became testimonials for organ donation. Nicholas Green, a seven-year-old American child, was shot on 29 September 1994 and died two days later in Messina; the organs and corneas were donated to seven critically ill Italians. Rolly Prajapati, a six-year-old Indian child, was the victim of a similar event on 27 April 2022 in Noida, and the family consented to donation. Organ donations rose significantly in both countries afterwards.

This edition's theme, "A Transplant Renaissance: Ethics, Equity, and Evolution", runs across all three days. The third is given to the University as educator, research engine and community partner.

The essence of this innovative and unique event lies in the merging of science and art on a single scientific platform, reflecting the love for knowledge and the power of art. The conference will feature various hands-on workshops, simulations, art exhibitions, and sport events.

An entire day of the Conference is dedicated to the University Students and Residents to underline the important role of University to spread awareness on organ donation and transplantation, and the role of Students and Residents as Ambassadors of Organ Donation.

The DONARTE 2026 Organ Donation Awareness Program, combined with the Scientific Program, will focus on raising awareness about organ donation and encouraging informed decisions regarding post-mortem organ donation. The program will include various events, sport activities, an art exhibition, and involve school and university students, an artistic program, and social media campaigns. These initiatives are designed to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of organ donation, the donation process, and the profound difference one donor can make.