Connecting Science Teacher Associations Around the World
The International Council of Associations for Science Education (ICASE) is a global network dedicated to advancing science and technology education through international collaboration, research, professional learning, publications, leadership and advocacy.
Created through a UNESCO initiative in 1972 and officially established in 1973, ICASE connects science teacher associations, educational institutions, researchers, educators and partner organisations throughout the world.
ICASE supports communication and cooperation at national, regional and international levels. Through its global network, the organisation promotes the exchange of knowledge, strengthens professional communities and amplifies the international voice of science education.
Today, ICASE connects member organisations spanning more than 75 countries and maintains regional representation across Africa, Asia, Australia and the Pacific, Europe and Eurasia, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East, and North America.
More than five decades of global science education leadership
Advancing quality science and technology education for all
ICASE works to strengthen science education systems by connecting professional organisations, enabling international cooperation and supporting educators with knowledge, networks and opportunities. Its strategic priorities place quality, accessibility, collaboration and organisational development at the centre of its work.
Quality Education for All
Enhancing and supporting high-quality science and technology education that is relevant, inclusive and accessible to learners in different national and educational contexts.
Professional Learning
Supporting formal and non-formal learning opportunities that strengthen the knowledge, confidence and professional capacity of science educators.
Global Collaboration
Facilitating cooperation, knowledge exchange and joint initiatives among member organisations and their affiliated institutions around the world.
Strong Professional Organisations
Encouraging the establishment and development of organisations that lead science and technology education initiatives at national, regional and global levels.
From international dialogue to practical support for educators
ICASE brings together organisations with different experiences, resources and perspectives. This creates a shared platform where ideas can move across borders and where educators, researchers and leaders can work on common priorities.
The organisation is member-led. ICASE does not have individual members; its member organisations elect the Executive Committee. Day-to-day leadership is supported by the Executive Management Committee, regional representatives and standing committees.
Publications and Knowledge SharingJournals, bulletins, newsletters, books and professional resources help make international science education knowledge accessible to the wider community.View publications →
Projects and Professional LearningCollaborative initiatives such as PROFILES, ENGINEER and PARSEL have supported inquiry-based learning, teacher development and scientific literacy.Discover projects →
Regional RepresentationRegional representatives connect local priorities with the global network, support partnerships and help member organisations participate in international activity.Meet the representatives →
Leadership and AdvocacyThe Constitution, Strategic Plan and World Conference declarations provide a framework for cooperation and articulate shared priorities for science education.Read strategic documents →
Who ICASE brings together
ICASE serves as a meeting point for organisations and institutions committed to improving science education. Its strength comes from the diversity of its members and partners, and from their willingness to share expertise across disciplines, regions and education systems.
Universities and research institutions
Science museums and centres
Professional and subject associations
Educators and education leaders
International partner organisations
Local expertise, international coordination
Member organisations shape the direction of ICASE through an elected Executive Committee. Regional representatives and specialist committees support communication, professional activity and coordination across the network.
- Executive and management leadership
- Regional representation across the world
- Standing committees with specialist responsibilities
- Member organisations as the foundation of governance
Built through cooperation, sustained by a global community
ICASE began with a shared belief that science teacher associations could achieve more by working together internationally. That founding principle continues to guide the organisation.
The Beginning in Singapore
A UNESCO-sponsored strategic meeting was held in Singapore in June 1972. Hosted by the Science Teachers’ Association of Singapore and the Singapore National Academy of Science, it brought together representatives from science teacher associations across Asia and laid the foundation for ICASE.
ICASE Formally Established
The organisational constitution was approved at a meeting held at the University of Maryland on 15 April 1973. An interim Executive Committee was formed, creating the governance structure needed to launch the international network.
An International Identity
The first Executive Committee meeting was held at UNESCO in Paris. During this period, the five-hexagon ICASE logo was designed, providing the organisation with an identity that continues to represent connection and cooperation.
A Worldwide Member-Led Network
More than 200 organisations have participated in ICASE since its founding. The network now connects science teacher associations, universities, research bodies, museums, professional organisations and education partners across the world.
Continue your connection with ICASE
For general enquiries, use the Contact Us option in the website header. To participate more directly, explore membership, member organisations, publications, projects and international conferences.