By Star Nolwazi
The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025), a UNESCO-led global initiative aimed at raising awareness and accelerating quantum science worldwide, will conclude with a two-day celebration here on February 10–11, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and youth from across the globe.
Launched in early 2025 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, IYQ2025 spurred hundreds of events worldwide to elevate public understanding of quantum science’s transformative potential. The Accra closing ceremony will not only celebrate the year’s achievements but also mark the launch of the Global Quantum Initiative, designed to sustain momentum beyond 2025.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm continue into 2026,” said Emily Edwards, a member of the IYQ Steering Committee and associate research professor at Duke University. “A strong foundation has been laid for the years ahead.”
The event will feature high-level speakers including Ghana’s Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu, UNESCO representatives, and leading physicists from Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Panel discussions will focus on themes such as Africa’s role in the quantum future, talent development, education strategies, and global quantum equity.
Notably, the Ghana location underscores a strategic emphasis on boosting scientific capacity in Africa and other developing regions. “Africa and the Future of Quantum Science and Technology” is among the key sessions, reflecting a growing recognition of the continent’s potential in the emerging quantum ecosystem.
Public activities will include the screening of the Quantum 100 video, a reading of the winning entry from the IYQ poetry contest, a science-inspired performance by a Ghanaian youth ensemble, and an exhibition by IYQ sponsors.
