Seventy-two young women from 31 countries today began an intensive, three-week training course for guides at United Nations Headquarters in anticipation of a heavy increase in the number of visitors during the period of the New York World's Fair. The new class brings the total number of U.N. guides to 130, of whom 21 work on a part-time basis. They come from 42 countries and together can conduct tours in approximately 35 languages. During the three-week training period, guide trainees study the aims and day-to-day work of the United Nations, which they subsequently explain to visitors in the course of a guided tour. They also become acquainted with the architectural features of the building, including gifts from many Governments. The course includes lectures, films, the reading of United Nations literature, and instruction in guiding techniques. The guided tours are organized by the Visitors, Service of the Office of Public Information.

Sir Alexander MacFarquhar, Director of Personnel, administering the United Nations oath to the new class of guides.