Quantum science and technologies are rapidly shaping the future of science, security, economy and society. Yet women, especially those from the Global South, remain underrepresented in this critical field.

To address this gap, UNESCO, in collaboration with leading quantum educators, is launching an open-access introductory course on quantum computing, paired with a selective training and mentorship programme for women PhD students in Africa.

Participants will explore the fundamentals of quantum computing through a structured online course based on the open-source textbook Learn Quantum Computation using Qiskit. While the course is freely accessible to all learners, a dedicated mentorship opportunity will be offered to up to 50 selected female PhD students in STEM fields from across Africa, with personalized support from international experts.

Training and mentorship

In addition to the open course, UNESCO is offering a dedicated mentorship and live training track for up to 50 outstanding female PhD students in STEM from across Africa.