Kungl. Vetenskapsakademien wants to show Sweden's teachers in mathematics and science their appreciation, and at the same time draw society's attention to the teachers' important role in the country's development. The prize is named after Professor Ingvar Lindqvist, who was President of the Academy from 1987 to 1991. He initiated a number of Academy activities to highlight the importance of teachers in society. The prize has been awarded since 1991. Colleagues, principals, students and parents are invited to nominate candidates. After preparation by the Academy's Committee on School Affairs, the proposals for winners are submitted to the members of the Academy, who decide on the winners at a regular meeting. The Committee on School Affairs consists of representatives of the Academy's classes of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, medicine, technology and social sciences, as well as didacticians and former laureates. The award ceremony takes place on the Academy's anniversary day. A half-day symposium is also held in conjunction with this event, where the laureates present their work and Academy members give scientific lectures.