Erik Jacquemyn is a pioneer and leading expert in the field of science communication and interactive science centres. His expertise is situated in various areas of science communication: strategy development, the creation of content-related concepts, feasibility studies, business plans, development of interactive exhibitions, operational processes, marketing & communication.
He is currently actively involved in the development of several science communication initiatives worldwide.
He is the chair of the Science Popularisation Collaborative and chair of the Science Centre World Summit Foundation.
In 2017 UNESCO awarded Erik the UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the Popularization of Science as a recognition for his entire career as a pioneer in the field of science communication.
In 2014, he received the ASTC Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Award for Experienced Leadership in the Field, an award of the Washington based global Association of Science-Technology Centers that is presented to individuals in recognition of extraordinary accomplishments in the field of science communication.
In 2006, Erik Jacquemyn was awarded the Prize of the Flemish Minister of Science Policy.
Every 3 years, the Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium for Science and the Arts, presents this prize to a person/organization who has made an important contribution to the popularisation of science.
In 1990 Erik Jacquemyn received this fellowship for the commitment he made in popularising science and technology by means of the Flanders Technology International event.
Topic: Enhancing Public Understanding of Science: the Flanders Model
Abstract
In 90s of last century the government of Flanders, the northern part of Belgium initiated several initiatives to enhance the public science literacy. The opening of Technopolis, the Flemish science centre in 2000 was a milestone in this regard. At that moment the Flanders model of public understanding of science was born: a well-balanced set of activities with the science centre as its flagship. Throughout the years this model evolved and has been refined. The key elements for the success of this model will be shared.
