This annual event brings together more than 950 participants from over 50 countries, including scientists, educators, science promoters, and heads of institutions committed to making science accessible to broader audiences.
The participation of our team was made possible through a new project on science engagement in mathematics, implemented by Ecsite with the support of the Simons Foundation (USA) and in collaboration with the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.
“The Ecsite Conference is a platform for professional dialogue, exchange of best practices, and joint efforts to find solutions that advance science. We are deeply grateful to this community for its openness and support. In these challenging times for our country, collaboration holds real power to shape a better future. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Ecsite team, the Simons Foundation, Copernicus Science Centre, and all the science centres and museums for their solidarity,” said Stanislav Dovgyi, President of JASU.
“For the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, participation in the Ecsite Conference offers an opportunity for deeper integration of innovative approaches into our daily work. The conference inspires us to explore new ways to engage children in science, particularly mathematics, and fosters lasting connections with the European network of science centres and museums,” – said Olena Kvachevska, Acting Director of JASU.
On 2 June, prior to the Conference’s official launch, Ecsite organised a dedicated workshop for our team on engaging audiences in mathematics, delivered by the experts from IMAGINARY (Germany) and TRACES (France). The delegation from JASU also met with the representative of the Simons Foundation, Elizabeth Simolke. The Junior Academy of Sciences now intends to adapt and implement the tools and approaches shared during the workshop in Ukraine, both within the Academy’s own initiatives and across the wider landscape of science engagement in the country.
Kateryna Terletska, Head of the Laboratory of Mathematical Sciences at JASU, shared her impressions of the workshop: “The mathematics engagement workshop was highly practical: we didn’t just listen, but actively participated in different activities, much like in a real classroom setting. This hands-on approach provided valuable insights into the ways to get people interested in mathematics. We explored techniques for working with diverse audiences and learned how to use body movements, space, and simple materials to make activities more engaging. The workshop also highlighted the importance of teamwork and sharing of ideas.”
Over the three days of the Conference, representatives from JASU actively participated in panel discussions, Deep Dives, and professional seminars. Mariia Dubrova, Head of the Science Museum at JASU, delivered a presentation during the panel discussion, How Science Engagement Heals Communities Affected by War and Civil Unrest. She shared insights from her work amid Ukraine’s ongoing war, focusing on strategies for engaging children in educational activities in shelters.
Mariia also presented the Travelling Science Museum – a JASU initiative that delivers interactive science exhibits to communities in Ukraine’s frontline regions.
Vasyl Dunets, Deputy Director for the Development of Science Centres and International Strategic Projects at JASU, also delivered a presentation during the panel discussion, The Pros and Cons of National Science Centre Networks. Representatives from Portugal, Poland, Serbia, Austria, Croatia, and Ukraine shared insights on developing regional science centres, discussing their roles in various countries, the challenges they face, and strategies for sustainability and growth.
“The Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine is committed to creating opportunities for science engagement through specialised centres, museums, and diverse educational programs,” said Vasyl Dunets. “By developing a network of science centres across Ukraine, we are building a future that inspires curiosity and promotes scientific interest across all regions of Ukraine. Thanks to the invaluable support of our partners – including Ecsite (European Network of Science Centres and Museums), ASTC (Association of Science and Technology Centers), and the Simons Foundation – we are well-positioned to realise this vision.”
The Junior Academy of Sciences also presented several of its educational initiatives during the event, with a special emphasis on the Cuboid Museum of Mathematics. Attendees explored the museum’s innovative exhibits and educational approaches developed under extraordinary circumstances.
Beyond participating in the official Conference program, the Ukrainian delegation held many meetings with international partners to express gratitude for their continued support of the JASU’s educational initiatives. Thanks to the implementation of this project, JASU had the opportunity to present its activities at the Ukrainian booth, which was visited by many participants.
This program is funded by Simons Foundation International and administered by the Simons Foundation’s Science, Society & Culture division.