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The International Movement for Leisure Activities in Science and Technology


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since 1987

MILSET inspires young minds to transform the world through science

The International Movement for Leisure Activities in Science and Technology (MILSET – Mouvement International pour le Loisir Scientifique Et Technique) is a non-governmental, non-profit, and politically independent organization founded in 1987. Its mission is to promote a scientific culture among children and youth through non-formal education activities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). MILSET organizes science fairs, camps, congresses, and workshops, with its flagship event being the Expo-Sciences International (ESI), which brings together delegations from over 70 countries every two years.

With regional structures active on all continents, MILSET fosters intercultural exchange, creativity, cooperation, and critical thinking. Its global network strengthens youth organizations and has a lasting impact on participants’ personal and academic development.

Over more than three decades, MILSET has become a key platform for youth empowerment through science and technology.

MILSET

Mission and Objectives

The International Movement for Leisure Activities in Science and Technology (MILSET - Mouvement International pour le Loisir Scientifique Et Technique) is a non-governmental, non-profit and politically independent youth organisation, which aims at developing scientific culture among young people through the organisation of science-and-technology programmes, including science fairs, science camps, congresses and other activities of high quality.

MILSET supports its member organisations to engage youth in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) through motivation, cooperation, collaboration, and networking. We do this by:

  • Helping member organisations create an environment in their country that enables youth to be involved in STEAM
  • Connecting, supporting, and representing member organisations around the world
  • Stimulating and supporting international youth networking and cooperation through STEAM
  • Providing member organisations with global opportunities to engage youth in STEAM

MILSET is also a stakeholder in the current revolution of the Technologies of Information and Communication, and advocates the free sharing of knowledge and the building of true knowledge sharing societies, a stand exemplified in its participation to the parallel events to the World Summit on Information Societies through the World Youth Congress on Information and Knowledge Society.

Thanks to MILSET, tens of thousands of young people have already met to exchange and make the most of their creations, discuss with researchers, youth leaders and industrialists. They have developed projects together, discovered foreign languages and cultures, and have been trained to acquire new technologies.

Joining MILSET is adhering to its charter, that of a movement which is concerned about today's world, participates in the local development of scientific and technical education in leisure time, promotes international cooperation, sustainable development, citizenship and peace, by practicing sciences and technology in a spirit of respect, understanding and solidarity within different geographic and spiritual communities.

Global STEAM Engagement

MILSET empowers youth globally through fairs, camps, and initiatives, inspiring over 10,000 participants to engage in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Mission & Impact

Through non-formal education and global networking, MILSET fosters scientific culture, supports sustainable development, and encourages youth leadership for a better world.



MILSET

Philosophy

MILSET believes in empowering youth through STEAM to build a more inclusive, informed, and collaborative world. Our philosophy promotes curiosity, cultural understanding, sustainability, and peace placing learning, cooperation, and diversity at the heart of every initiative.
MILSET Values:
Science and Technology

We value scientific knowledge for its role in deepening our understanding of nature and society, driving groundbreaking innovations, offering solutions to human challenges, enhancing the quality of life, and ensuring sustainable development for current and future generations.

Scientific Culture

We encourage a scientific culture, particularly among youth, as a way of thinking that explores the world through a project-based approach, grounded in evidence, experimental verification, observation, critical thinking, and the capacity to view problems from multiple perspectives.

Respect for Nature and the Environment

We are committed to preserving nature and the diversity of all living species, and the responsible management of natural resources, to ensure a healthy environment and sustainable development for present and future generations.

Freedom, Equality and Diversity

We uphold human dignity and respect everyone's right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. We believe that all individuals should be free to express their ideas, explore and critique, and choose their educational and career paths, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, or social status.

Global Understanding

We value, respect, and encourage the diversity of beliefs, cultures, and languages, treating all representatives of countries and nations with equal respect. We actively promote cultural understanding and rapprochement. We are committed to impartiality and non-discrimination in all our activities, ensuring that everyone—regardless of individual, organisational, or national background—has equal rights and opportunities to benefit from MILSET programs and initiatives.

We believe that peace is a fundamental value of humanity and that education in STEAM, along with fostering connections among youth from different countries, contributes to global understanding and helps prevent future conflicts.



MILSET

Principles

MILSET is guided by independence, solidarity, and cooperation, promoting STEAM education through trust, shared responsibility, and international collaboration aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Independence

MILSET is a non-governmental, non-profit, and politically independent youth organisation. Our programs and activities focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), and are conducted without any political, religious, or ideological agendas or propaganda.
  • Non-governmental and non-profit
  • Politically independent youth organisation
  • STEAM focus with no agendas or propaganda

Solidarity &
Shared Responsibility

The unity of the MILSET community is founded on shared interests and goals among all its members. Our relationships are built on mutual trust, understanding, support, and collaboration. Responsibility for managing our organisation is collectively shared and exercised through multilateral cooperation.
  • Shared interests and goals
  • Mutual trust, support, and collaboration
  • Collective, multilateral governance

Cooperation &
Collaboration

We foster relationships among our members based on the principles of cooperation and partnership. We prioritize and support youth STEAM events that promote dialogue, collaboration, and teamwork among participants from different countries.
  • Cooperation and partnership across members
  • Support youth STEAM events and dialogue
  • Encourage collaboration and teamwork globally




We create global spaces where youth unite through science and technology to innovate, connect, inspire, transform

MILSET Awards

MILSET Awards

Recognizing Excellence and Dedication Worldwide

MILSET honors excellence, dedication, and the spirit of international collaboration through a series of distinguished awards presented during the Expo-Sciences International (ESI). These recognitions celebrate host organizations, inspiring leaders, committed volunteers, and outstanding delegations who embody the values of science, culture, unity, and global friendship. Each award reflects MILSET’s commitment to promoting youth engagement in STEAM and strengthening the worldwide movement through leadership, resilience, and cooperation

MILSET Award

The MILSET Award is a long-standing recognition presented to the host organization of each Expo-Sciences International, a tradition that began with the very first edition in Canada in 1987.

Derek Gray Medal

The Derek Gray Medal is awarded during the MILSET Expo-Sciences International to individuals who have made an outstanding or long-term contribution to the movement. It honors the legacy of Derek Gray from South Africa.

Enrique Padilla Award

The Enrique Padilla Award is granted during each MILSET Expo-Sciences International to a delegation that, despite challenging circumstances, brings numerous young participants. It honors the memory of Enrique Padilla from Argentina.

MILSET Volunteer Award

The MILSET Volunteer Award is presented every odd year to a young volunteer who exemplifies values, passion, and dedication in promoting science and technology education. Created in memory of Rune Thode Nielsen of Denmark, it honors his inspiring legacy as a devoted, optimistic, and responsible ambassador for youth in STEAM.

ESI Cultural Award

The Cultural Award is granted during each MILSET Expo-Sciences International to the delegation whose performance at the cultural evening showcases preparation, unity, and the authentic spirit of their country’s unique traditions.

ESI Best Delegation Award

The Best Delegation Award is presented during the MILSET Expo-Sciences International to a participating delegation that exemplifies outstanding behavior, collaboration, and respect. This recognition celebrates those who not only represent their country with pride, but also engage openly and positively with other cultures, fostering unity and global understanding throughout the event.

MILSET Asia Ulzahan Yessirkap Award Excellence Award for Girls

The Ulzahan Yessirkap Excellence Award is presented at each MILSET Expo-Sciences held in Asia, in memory of Ulzahan Yessirkapa passionate Kazakh student and devoted MILSET member. This award honors her legacy by recognizing exceptional dedication and achievement among young participants in the region.

MILSET

Programmes and Events Philosophy Statement

MILSET programmes and events reflect the organisation’s non-negotiable values and principles.
MILSET believes that competition motivates youth to participate in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM); however

Philosophy

Non-Competitive Spirit

ESIs are non-competitive events focused on cooperation, collaboration, and networking. No form of project competition or awards is permitted; youth are recognized equally for their participation.

Philosophy

Responsible Competition

Other MILSET programmes may include competition only if judging processes are clear, rigorous, equitable, and conducted by recognized experts. Unfair or inconsistent competition discourages youth and harms the organisation’s credibility.

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MILSET is dedicated to promoting science and technology education for all. If you enjoy taking part in our activities and believe in our mission, please consider making a donation.
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