In December 2025, women scientists from Ethiopia joined 40 participants from 15 African countries in the UNESCO Quantum Computing Course for African Women Scientists. The nine-session online course, designed by UNESCO in collaboration with leading quantum educators, provided foundational training in quantum computing, progressing from core concepts to selected applications. Participants who completed at least six sessions received a certificate, with top performers awarded a dedicated training opportunity.
According to UNESCO’s published account, the course drew participants from Ghana, Nigeria, Mauritania, Tunisia, South Africa, Kenya, Togo, The Gambia, Namibia, Algeria, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. UNESCO’s Global Quantum Initiative page confirmed Ethiopia among the 15 participating countries. The program was paired with a mentorship track for women PhD students in STEM fields.
UNESCO designed the course in response to survey findings indicating strong interest in quantum-related fields among African researchers alongside a shortage of structured entry-level learning opportunities. Insights from the program are expected to inform the ongoing development of UNESCO’s Global Quantum Initiative, which launched at the IYQ 2025 closing ceremony in Accra, Ghana, in February 2026.