Ecsite, the European network of science centres and museums, has announced that the 2023 International Directors Forum on Science Engagement will take place from 15-16 November, and will be hosted by Ecsite member Heureka, The Finnish Science Centre.
Heureka and the six regional networks for science engagement (ASPAC, ASTC, Ecsite, NAMES, RedPOP, and SAASTEC) are working together to organise a high-level gathering for CEOs of member institutions.
“We are very proud to host this first-of-a-kind International Directors Forum at Heureka which will stimulate discussion and the sharing of knowledge between senior leaders, with a balance between practical and strategic topics,” says Heureka CEO Mikko Myllykoski.
“With a truly global audience, it is crucial that we understand all the expectations when we design the programme. For this reason, we have developed a questionnaire which we invite the network’s members to complete.”
Driving the industry forward
With an emphasis on the challenges of the climate and biodiversity crisis, misinformation, and encouraging critical thinking, up to 200 CEOs will come together in person for the two-day forum, to share practical experience and strategic thoughts on the future of the science engagement industry.
Unlike past international events, this Ecsite Forum will provide a chance to network and develop contacts with a notable group of participants outside of a director’s standard regional network.
Attendees will be able to participate in expertly mediated talks with other directors, recognising their competence in running institutions and providing a private forum for sharing expertise, engaging in debate, and exchanging knowledge.
Creating a legacy
The Forum aspires to serve as a change catalyst by elevating the significance of science engagement organisations’ contributions to their communities in the conversation both inside the Forum and more generally. Additionally, it aims to leave behind a legacy of resources and tools that may be used by other network members as well as to contribute to stories of impact and shared future aspirations that can be shared with governmental organisations, donors, and the business sector.
There will be the option to stay on 17 November and participate in a schedule of local tours in the Helsinki area. The program’s specifics will be made available later in the year, and registration will begin in April 2023.
Ecsite will host its annual conference in Malta this June.
Headline photo: Heureka
