Through collaboration with institutions worldwide, UNESCO fosters education in Physics for students and teachers alike. To name a few, the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and the International Commission for Physics Education (ICPE) are examples of physics education networks and universities that work closely with UNESCO to enhance the education of young physicists, specialists and physics teachers around the world.

Following the physics education goals adopted in 2005 at the World Conference on Physics and Sustainable Development (Durban, South Africa), the Organization introduces and promotes novel hands-on educative methodology to both youth and more experienced academics. The UNESCO action in this area is mirrored by its successful Active Learning in Optics and Photonics (ALOP) workshops. ALOP trains teachers with the objective to enable them to develop professionally and use their skills in teaching physics in a different and more effective manner; the student being the ultimate beneficiaries of these activities. Since its inception, ALOP workshops have been organized in 45 countries, including 15 in Africa, promoting a practical approach to the teaching and learning of optics and photonics. A highly adaptable programme, it has been implemented in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese; and following each session, Optics and Photonics kits (including manuals, optics and photonics devices, lenses and clay) are distributed to participants so that they may continue practicing in their classrooms.