The manager was not present at the inception of the programme.

Answer: Option A

Beginning : the point in time or space at which something begins.
Conclusion : the end or finish of an event, process, or text.
Demonstration : an act of showing that something exists or is true by giving proof or evidence.
Rejection : the dismissing or refusing of a proposal, idea, etc.
Inception : the establishment or starting point of an institution or activity.

Synonym of Inception is Beginning