Co-sponsorship programmes
with Partner Countries

Tips on organizing a successful seminar

Developing the idea

• Choose a topic which is topical and relevant to discussion
• Establish your objectives
• Think about how long the activity should last in order to achieve maximum effect (one day / one and a half days / two days)
• Identify speakers and audience who can generate balanced discussion
• Ensure that the subjects for discussion are logically structured
• Leave enough time for open discussion after the formal presentations

Advance Planning

• Select a high-level keynote speaker
• Select a substitute speaker in the event of late cancellation
• Determine ideal number of participants
• Identify location and accommodation
• Develop a clear and realistic budget
• Identify sources for funding

Organization

• Set dates for conference
• Reserve locations, accommodation, and interpreters
• Establish working language(s) of seminar
• Secure keynote speaker
• Develop guidelines for speakers
• Prepare invitations
• Prepare registration forms
• Obtain information on visa requirements
• Co-ordinate transportation schedules with seminar schedule
• Arrange local transport
• Seek accommodation close to conference/seminar venue
• Develop final format and schedule of seminar
• Select chairpersons
• Invite media (if appropriate)
• Organise press conference
• Keep all financial receipts