Café Scientifique provides a unique forum for the discussion of topical and thought provoking scientific issues in a way that is much more relaxed, informal and accessible than a public lecture.
Events are held in cafés, bars or even bookshops and each begins with a short talk from a speaker who is usually a scientist or science writer. The audience consists of people who have an interest in science but generally never have the opportunity to discuss their views on the implications of science for society.
The meetings are entirely different from the usual talks and seminars given at universities and institutions around the world. Instead of one person lecturing others, Café Scientifique is designed to promote group discussion. The evening is usually lead by an invited speaker who talks briefly and without visual aids, the topic is then thrown open to debate and everyone is encouraged to join in.
The format allows individuals to meet other people over coffee and tea. Some people see the evenings as a way of meeting new people and making friends, as networking events in which they can make new contacts or even as part of the dating scene for scientists!
Where did it begin?
The first ever Café Scientifique took place in Leeds, UK in 1998. It was an original idea developed by Duncan Dallas whose concept captured people's imagination and there are now Café Scientifique across the UK and also globally from Singapore to Buenos Aires.
Café Scientifique in Egypt
The first Café Scientifique event in Egypt was held on December 2003, where Dr. Rupert Ormond's raised the topic, 'Coral Reefs: Do they have a future?'
During the past three years we tackled several scientific issues like biodiversity, Climate Change, DNA and Food, Health and Nutrition. The Café Scientifique Sessions were mostly held in the Knowledge and Learning Centres in both Cairo and Alexandria British Council Offices using our Video Conference to connect to a speaker in the UK.
What’s New in 2008?
2008 will be full of interactive and lively Café Scientifique sessions were we will invite UK speakers to hold a lot of live Café Scientifique sessions in addition to the Video Conference ones.
To suggest a topic to be discussed at a Café Scientifique event please click here. For more information please contact us.
