Announcements


International Directors Forum (INTEDIF) 2026:
Save the Date & Stay Tuned!

The International Directors Forum (INTEDIF) 2026 is coming to Bangkok, Thailand! Hosted by the ASPAC network at the National Science Museum (NSM), this premier event for senior leaders in science engagement will take place on 17-18 August 2026.

The EMME Summer School 2025 Concludes with Resounding Success!

We are delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the Euro-Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) Summer School for Science Communication 2025! From 21-25 September 2025, 25 middle- and senior-level professionals from the Euro-Mediterranean and Middle East regions gathered at Ciência Viva's Pavilion of Knowledge in Lisbon, Portugal, for five intensive days of training, collaboration, and innovation.

The Making and Tinkering Community Summer 2025 Workroom Concludes Successfully!

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the "Making and Tinkering Community" Workroom, a comprehensive program designed to empower professionals in developing engaging and impactful hands-on activities.

New Membership Categories

We are delighted to announce the new membership categories in NAMES network.
Check them out and do not hesitate to join us!

Join Us for the International Day of Scientific Culture 2025!

Mark your calendars! The International Day of Scientific Culture (IDSC) is celebrated every year on 28 September. This date was chosen to honor the anniversary of the first broadcast of the influential science series Cosmos, a true milestone in science communication.

Announcing the New "Making and Tinkering Community" Workroom!

This comprehensive Workroom will consist of five dynamic online sessions via Zoom Platform, guiding participants through the entire process of creating and implementing successful Making and Tinkering experiences for their audiences. We are thrilled to confirm that the Workroom will be led by Samar Kirresh, Founder & Director, AlElieh for Science, Environment & Art.

MAAP 2025: Call for Applications!

NAMES network is excited to announce the annual Mijbil Almutawa Award Program (MAAP 2025)! This award honors the legacy of the late Mijbil Almutawa, a pivotal figure in the development of NAMES and the science engagement field. The program supports young science engagement professionals by covering expenses to attend EMME Summer School 2025.

Calling All NAMES Members: Share Your Science Engagement Activities!

Whether you are hosting an event, organizing a workshop, or participating in a science outreach program, we want to know! NAMES community is eager to learn about all the exciting science engagement activities happening in our region.

Webinar | Working with Teachers | 4 February 2025

In this highly interesting online webinar, Dr. Megan W. Taylor, Chief Teaching & Learning Officer at the Exploratorium, elaborated on the Exploratorium’s experience working with school teachers to enhance STEM/STEAM education for students. The webinar emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between museums/science centers and schools. By offering high-quality programs, providing valuable resources, and actively measuring impact, these institutions can significantly enhance STEM and STEAM education for students.

*Webinar Recording is Available for NAMES members upon demand; to get access, send us an email to namesnetwork@bibalex.org

NAMES 2024: A Year of Rejuvenation and Growth

2024 was an incredible year for NAMES, marked by renewed commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the MENA region. We embraced the digital age, reimagined our approach to connecting with our community, and emerged with a renewed sense of vigor.

Call for Hosting NAMES 8th Conference and General Assembly Meeting (NAMES 2026)

NAMES invites Science Centers and Science Museum in the North Africa and Middle East region to submit proposals to host the 8th NAMES Conference and General Assembly Meeting in 2026.

Interactive SciComm Session: Science Festivals

Join Hassun El-Zafar for an engaging interactive online session! Explore the significance of science festivals in fostering public engagement with science and enhancing scientific literacy.

Webinar | Promoting a broader understanding of the role of science in society | 5 December 2024

This engaging free webinar explored the critical role of science in society, brought to you by NAMES in collaboration with RedPOP. This webinar is part of our ongoing celebration of the International Day of Scientific Culture (IDSC).
(Recording Available)

Meetup | Marketing & Fundraising Community: Digital Storytelling

Join us for an online meetup with Scott Kegley, Vice President of Digital Marketing at the Atlanta Falcons NFL. Scott will share his expertise on how to use storytelling to engage audiences and drive results. Discover practical tips and tricks to elevate your own digital marketing campaigns.