D. Implementation Difficulties
The two main difficulties encountered were related to participant transport arrangements and communication problems. With any event involving international travel of participants such troubles are perhaps inescapable. However, due to the length of time it took for the budget to be approved by the Foundation the prices eventually paid for individual air tickets for some participants rose considerably. The original quotes provided were valid only for a short period. As the departure day got closer, the price continued to rise. Also, as the disbursement of the award was close to the departure date for many participants we were not left with much time to courier tickets to them. In two cases the tickets did not arrive and we had to get them cancelled and reissued. These problems could have been avoided had the budget settlement and disbursement dates been brought forward.
Adhering strictly to the Forum's budget reporting procedures has proved difficult at times given the number of exceptions encountered.
Communications were difficult with some participants, hindered further by less than cooperative university staff.
E. Other
Overall the forum was seen by both participants and organisers as an overwhelming success. It is hoped that such a forum focussing on topical themes and with a particular emphasis on a certain region can become a regular feature of the Foundation's Forum Program.
