Purpose
The RCOG World Congress Scientific Programme Committee is responsible for the overall design, development and delivery of the Congress scientific and educational programme. Its role is to ensure the programme is of the highest scientific quality, reflects the latest evidence and innovation, and meets the needs of an international, multidisciplinary audience.
Reporting mechanism
The Congress Scientific Programme Committee reports to Education Board.
Responsibilities
The Committee will:
1. Programme development
- Define the scientific themes, objectives and scope of the Congress.
- Ensure alignment with the Congress vision, host organisation’s strategic goals and professional priorities.
- Select plenary topics, keynote lectures, symposia, workshops and other scientific sessions.
- Ensure content reflects global perspectives, with balance across regions, specialties and disciplines.
2. Abstract and session management
- Oversee the abstract submission and review process, ensuring fairness, transparency and scientific rigour.
- Approve acceptance criteria for abstracts, oral communications and posters.
- Allocate abstracts to appropriate sessions and formats.
3. Quality assurance
- Ensure that all sessions are scientifically robust, evidence-based and free from undue commercial influence.
- Maintain balance between cutting-edge science, clinical practice and professional development.
- Monitor and evaluate programme balance (e.g. gender, geography, career stage).
4. Faculty and speaker selection
- Identify and invite international and regional experts as speakers, moderators and chairs.
- Promote inclusivity, diversity and opportunities for all.
5. Accreditation and compliance
- Ensure the programme complies with continuing professional development (CPD/CME) requirements.
- Uphold ethical standards in line with accreditation and industry codes of practice.
6. Collaboration and reporting
- Work in collaboration with the Congress Organising Committee, Local Organising Committee (if relevant) and Secretariat.
- Provide regular updates and final reports on programme development, abstract review outcomes and faculty engagement.
Membership
- Chair (appointed by the RCOG)
- Co-Chair (if applicable)
- Representatives from Council
- UK and international Fellows and Members with relevant expertise
- Trainee representatives
- Secretariat support
Meetings
The Committee will meet regularly (virtually and/or in person) during the planning cycle, with frequency increasing in the 12 months prior to the Congress.
Decisions may be made by consensus or, if required, by majority vote of members present.
The final approval of the programme rests with the RCOG Officers.
Terms of service
Members will normally serve for the duration of the Congress planning cycle.