The languages at the plenary sessions were Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Simulation translations were provided. Many documents were distributed in numerous languages, including English. As is usual in large conferences, it is impossible to attend all the sessions, even those to which one is admitted. However, a great deal is learned through discussion with people one meets.
Teacher preparation is a central issue.
As universities assume a different role and new information technologies help build an open educational system, the present level of information-communication technologies provides a base to begin creating a global system for distance education. The conference's Global Declaration and Action Plan for Higher Education in the Twenty-First Century presented the vision. However, the action depends on the follow-up activities as each country recognizes its responsibilities and challenges.