NAMES Network, in proud collaboration with the world’s leading science engagement networks—ASPAC, ASTC, Ecsite, RedPOP, and SAASTEC—invites senior institutional leaders to the second edition of the International Directors Forum (INTEDIF 2026).

This premier global summit will take place from 17–18 August 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, and is officially hosted by the Asia Pacific Network of Science and Technology Centres (ASPAC) alongside the National Science Museum (NSM) Thailand.

A Collaborative Global Summit

As part of a unified effort by the six global networks, this forum is designed exclusively for CEOs, C-suite executives, and senior directors of science centers, museums, and public engagement organizations. Together, over 100 global institutional leaders will gather to exchange raw insights, analyze pain points, and co-create generative models for the future..

Theme: 'Evolving our Organisations Amidst a Rapidly Changing World'

Key Strategic Topics & Workshops:

1. Strategies for Sustainability: Exploring the many facets of a science museum/center's Return on Investment (ROI) and leveraging them for long-term financial health.

2. Transforming Institutional Pain Points: Analyzing the subtle, daily friction points of running science engagement organizations and learning how to flip them into opportunities for institutional growth.

3. Cross-Network Collaboration: Hands-on workshops to devise entirely new models of partnership and resource-sharing across the six global networks.

4. Framing AI in Science Museums & Centers:

   • Positioning the dual crises of climate and biodiversity alongside the rapid ascension of AI.

   • Successfully engaging the public on the ethical use and potential of AI.

   • Adopting cutting-edge AI utilities while maintaining a deeply human-centered institution.

5. Decolonising Museums: Unpacking what this movement means for both formerly colonised and former coloniser societies, and building clear, actionable working models to move forward together.

6. Leadership Credentials for a New Era: Pinpointing the exact qualities required of modern leadership amidst rapid technological growth, social upheavals, and extreme polarization.

7. Co-Creating Tomorrow's Business Models: Targeted workshops focusing on designing new staffing patterns, innovative partnership models, and untapped funding sources.

Venue Highlights & Program Experience

The intensive program is set across exceptional venues, including NSM Thailand’s RAMA9 Museum, the Futurium, and the National Science and Technology Fair at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani—offering an exclusive look at one of the world's largest national science celebrations.

For practical travel information, you can visit the INTEDIF & ASPAC 2026 website: https://intedif-aspac2026.nsm.or.th/practical-information.

Fees & Deadlines

• INTEDIF 2026 Pass: USD 300

  • Includes full access to all strategic forum sessions, coffee breaks, lunches, and designated networking activities.

• The Combo Registration Discount:

  • For leaders looking to maximize their travel, you can bundle your forum pass with the subsequent ASPAC 2026 Conference (19-22 August) for a discounted total rate.

• NAMES Online Directors Gathering: 4 June 2026 (Join us to sync with fellow regional directors before booking)

• INTEDIF 2026 Early Bird Registration Deadline: 15 June 2026

Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to represent the North Africa and Middle East region, exchange strategic insights, and shape global science museum policy.

For inquiries and registration, please send an email to namesnetwork@bibalex.org.