UNESCO’s year-long initiative to boost global understanding of quantum science concludes February 10-11 with a celebratory event in Accra, Ghana, bringing together international leaders and researchers. The 2025 International Year of Quantum Science & Technology (IYQ) aimed to inspire younger generations and accelerate quantum development in countries worldwide through hundreds of events. The closing ceremony will not only acknowledge the initiative’s success but also launch the Global Quantum Initiative, ensuring continued momentum. “We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm continue through to 2026 and are proud that a strong foundation has been laid for the years ahead,” said Emily Edwards, IYQ Steering committee member. With a focus on Africa’s growing role in the quantum ecosystem, the event promises to chart a course for the next decade of quantum innovation.
2025 International Year of Quantum Science & Technology Concludes in Accra
This choice of location underscores a deliberate effort to highlight Africa’s burgeoning role within the rapidly evolving quantum landscape, fostering innovation and leadership on the continent. The event isn’t simply a retrospective; it will also serve as the launchpad for the Global Quantum Initiative, designed to sustain the momentum generated throughout 2025. Hundreds of events throughout the year elevated public understanding of quantum science’s potential impact, and the Accra gathering will consolidate those gains.
Emily Edwards, member of the IYQ Steering Committee and Associate Research Professor at Duke University Pratt School of Engineering, stated, “The entire 2025 year was filled with impactful events happening all over the world.” Attendees can anticipate discussions ranging from a historical overview – “A Century of Quantum Science” – to future-focused strategies for education and global development. Ghanaian Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, UNESCO directors, and a diverse array of university professors and scientific representatives will contribute to panels addressing topics like quantum knowledge as a catalyst for human advancement.
The program includes unique cultural elements, such as a performance by a Ghanaian youth ensemble and a screening of the “Quantum 100” video.
Global Quantum Initiative Launched Following IYQ2025 Success
The culmination of the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) isn’t an ending, but a springboard for continued advancement, as evidenced by the launch of the Global Quantum Initiative. A two-day celebration in Accra, Ghana, on February 10th and 11th will formally unveil the program, drawing attendees from across the globe and marking a deliberate focus on fostering quantum capacity within Africa. Keynote speakers include prominent figures like Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana Minister of Education, and Sir Peter Knight of Imperial College London, alongside representatives from organizations such as the American Physical Society and UNESCO.
IYQ2025 Event Highlights: Speakers and Program Topics
The closing ceremony for the International Year of Quantum Science & Technology (IYQ2025), taking place February 10-11 in Accra, Ghana, will feature a diverse program designed to consolidate gains and chart a course for the future of quantum technologies. Beyond acknowledging the initiative’s success, the event will unveil the “Global Quantum Initiative,” aiming to extend the momentum built throughout 2025. Attendees can anticipate a robust agenda encompassing both established scientific figures and rising voices in the field.
A key focus will be a screening of the “Quantum 100” video alongside a detailed discussion of UNESCO’s official 2025 IYQ report, providing a comprehensive overview of the year’s achievements. The program also includes a reading of the winning entry from the IYQ 2025 poetry contest, demonstrating a commitment to engaging with quantum concepts through artistic expression. The event’s sponsors, led by Microsoft and SC Quantum, reflect a broad coalition of industry, academia, and philanthropic organizations supporting the advancement of quantum science.
We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm continue through to 2026 with the closing ceremony and are proud that a strong foundation has been laid for the years ahead.
Emily Edwards, IYQ Steering committee member
Sponsorship and Support Driving International Quantum Development
Leading the charge were major industry players including Microsoft, SC Quantum, QLLIANSE, and Quantinuum, alongside foundations like the Berthold Leibinger Stiftung, demonstrating a clear commitment to fostering quantum development globally. This support extended beyond monetary contributions, encompassing industry associations, educational institutions, and philanthropic organizations, all recognizing the transformative potential of quantum technologies. The final event, taking place February 10-11, will also unveil the Global Quantum Initiative, designed to build on the momentum of IYQ2025. The initiative aims to consolidate gains and address strategic priorities for the next decade of quantum science, with a particular focus on expanding access and building talent on the African continent.
