University of Costa Rica San José, Costa Rica

The final workshop for the OSSSU project will be held from 9.00 am Tuesday 14^th September to 12 noon Friday 17^th September at the University of Costa Rica in San José, Costa Rica.

The workshop will include 45 minute presentations by Members and Associate Members about their work for OSSSU, to exchange information and expertise and to enable the management team to generate a final report for the Darwin Initiative.  The final sessions will explore the options for the continuance and expansion of the network, including a discussion of funding opportunities both for co-ordination of the project and for individual institutions.  The workshop will include a half-day visit to the lovely Jardín Botanico Lankester, located 23km east of San José.

The provisional schedule is as follows:

Monday 13th September: Arrival of delegates and welcome reception.
Tuesday 14th September: Opening ceremony with government officials and the press. Country reports on progress towards the objectives of the OSSSU project.
Wednesday 15th September: Country reports on progress towards the objectives of the OSSSU project. Tour of Jardín Botánico Lankester.
Thursday 16th September: Review of OSSSU project management, scientific achievements and training impact. Country reports from Associates. Formulation of the Global Orchid Facility (GOF).
Friday 17th September: Development of funding strategy for GOF. Closing ceremony.

It is expected that all participants will stay at the Hotel Ave del Paraíso http://www.hotelavedelparaiso.com/  This small hotel is very pleasant and friendly.  It is only five minutes walk from the University campus.

For further information email Phil Seaton: p.seaton@kew.org