In December 2025, UNESCO completed a nine-session online quantum computing course for 40 women scientists from 15 African countries. Participants joined from Ghana, Nigeria, Mauritania, Tunisia, South Africa, Kenya, Togo, Gambia, Namibia, Algeria, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia, according to UNESCO’s program report.
Based on the open-source textbook “Learn Quantum Computation using Qiskit,” the course progressed from core quantum computing concepts to selected applications. UNESCO designed the program to provide an accessible foundation in quantum computing and help participants identify pathways into the field. Participants who completed at least six sessions received a certificate, with the top three students awarded a dedicated training opportunity.
UNESCO stated that the course addressed persistent regional and gender disparities in global quantum development. Analytical work by the organization indicated that participation in quantum science remains limited across parts of Africa, with women facing additional structural barriers linked to access, networks, and training opportunities. Insights from the program were designated to inform the ongoing development of the Global Quantum Initiative.