Oxford, UK: Alex Sam presented his research on orphanhood and alternative child-care systems at the 7th Global Conference on Children and Youth, held in Oxford, United Kingdom, from 20 to 22 August 2026.
The research paper, titled “Orphan Care Versus Family Care: An Ideological Study on Children in Orphanages and Foster Care vs Families,” examines the differences between institutional care, foster care and family-based environments.
Alex Sam, associated with the International Leadership Development Centre, India, shared his research with an international audience of academics, social workers, researchers and child welfare professionals.
His study explores orphanhood from both literary and social perspectives. It examines how children without conventional family structures have been portrayed across different literary periods and how these representations relate to modern discussions about child welfare.
The research includes literary examples such as Oliver Twist, Jane Eyre, Huckleberry Finn and Harry Potter. These characters provide different perspectives on children’s experiences, relationships, identity and life outside traditional families.
Another focus of the study is the importance of emotional security and belonging. Alex Sam’s research compares these elements across family, foster and institutional care environments.
The presentation encouraged broader consideration of how care systems can provide children with stability, emotional support and opportunities for healthy development.
Alex Sam also highlighted the role of evidence-based research in improving child welfare practices. He emphasised that sustainable solutions may require cooperation between families, communities and child-care institutions.
His academic background includes business administration and social work, with research interests centred on social work, child welfare and family-based care systems.
The 7th Global Conference on Children and Youth served as an international forum for discussing research and professional experiences related to children and young people.
Presenting his research in Oxford represents an important professional achievement for Alex Sam and contributes to wider discussions about orphan care, family support and the welfare of vulnerable children.
Keywords: Alex Sam, Orphan Care, Alternative Care, Family Care, Foster Care, Child Welfare, Social Work, Orphanhood, Children and Youth, International Leadership Development Centre.
Photo Credit: Tanvi Kapoor