In December 2025, UNESCO launched the Quantum Computing Course for African Women Scientists, a nine-session online training and mentorship program that brought together 40 women researchers from 15 African countries. Burkina Faso was among the participating nations, alongside Ghana, Nigeria, Mauritania, Tunisia, South Africa, Kenya, Togo, Gambia, Namibia, Algeria, Morocco, Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. The initiative was developed as part of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025), for which UNESCO served as lead agency.
According to UNESCO’s published account, the course paired an open-access introductory curriculum on quantum computing with a selective mentorship track for women PhD students in STEM fields across the continent. Participants represented diverse scientific disciplines and varying levels of prior exposure to quantum science. The program was led by Dr. Maria Longobardi of the University of Basel and Dr. James Wootton of Moth Quantum, who guided participants through core principles and practical perspectives on quantum computing.
Participant feedback indicated strengthened understanding of quantum concepts and increased confidence in engaging with emerging technologies, according to UNESCO. Several attendees expressed interest in continued capacity-building and future mentorship roles. UNESCO stated that insights from the program would inform the ongoing development of its Global Quantum Initiative (2026-2028), supporting the expansion of learning pathways and research engagement across the Global South.