The issue contains:
1. IFAC Congress 1981 in Kyoto – A Memorable Event
- What it covers: Highlights of the 8th IFAC World Congress held in Kyoto, including session details, member admissions, and officer elections.
2. Forthcoming Events
- What it covers: A chronological schedule of upcoming IFAC and co-sponsored symposia, workshops, and conferences along with contact details.
3. Continuity and Change
- Author: T. Vámos
- What it covers: An introductory message from the incoming IFAC President reflecting on the federation’s 25-year history and future responsibilities.
4. IFAC Council 1981/84
- What it covers: A complete roster listing the elected members of the IFAC Council, Executive Board, and Technical Board for the 1981–1984 term.
5. IIASA Greets IFAC as Friend and Neighbour
- Author: Roger Levien
- What it covers: Congratulatory greetings and an overview of research collaboration between the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis and IFAC.
6. IFAC Awards Presented
- What it covers: Coverage of major awards presented at the congress, including John Coales receiving the first Quazza Medal and the Automatica Prize Paper Awards.
7. The IFAC TC on Components and Instruments
- Author: H. J. Leśkiewicz
- What it covers: A detailed summary of the background, field of interest, activities, and future policy of the Technical Committee on Components and Instruments.
8. Social Effects of Automation: A Matter of Concern?
- Author: John E. Rijnsdorp
- What it covers: A history and review of the Technical Committee on Social Effects of Automation, discussing its workshops, goals, and focus on work quality.