Experts call for greater public awareness, cross-border collaboration in quantum science, tech

The international scientific community has been urged to intensify public awareness, inclusive education, and cross-border collaboration to ensure that quantum science and technology are accessible to all nations, particularly those in the Global South. This is to ensure that no country or society is left behind in reaping the benefits offered by science and technology.

Delivering a speech as the guest of honour at the opening of the Global Closing Ceremony of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) in Accra yesterday, Professor Michele Dougherty, President of the Institute of Physics, United Kingdom, said quantum technology must not become the preserve of a few advanced economies, but rather a shared global asset capable of addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges.

She highlighted the growing impact of quantum science on sustainable development, security, health, energy, and economic growth, stating that it has become more imperative than ever to ensure equitable access. Prof. Dougherty encouraged governments to invest in research, education, innovation, and international partnerships to unlock the full potential of quantum science.

She also noted that quantum science and technology, backed by national scientific societies, international organisations, and the United Nations system, had gained support from more than 70 countries, collectively representing over five billion people worldwide.

In his welcome address, the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, expressed appreciation to UNESCO and the international community for selecting Ghana as host of this year’s event, describing the choice as recognition of Africa’s emerging role in global science, education, and innovation.

Ghana hosted the global closing ceremony of the IYQST on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s growing engagement with frontier science and international scientific cooperation. The event, held in Accra under the auspices of UNESCO, brought together senior government officials, UN representatives, distinguished scientists, policymakers, educators, and development partners from across the world.

Professor John Doyle, Past President of the American Physical Society, highlighted that although quantum science was advancing rapidly, more than 140 countries still lacked national quantum strategies, underscoring the need for inclusive global cooperation. He emphasised the relevance of quantum technologies to developing economies, particularly in agriculture, climate forecasting, secure communications, and advanced sensing—areas critical to livelihoods and food security in countries like Ghana.

Prof. Doyle also praised Ghana’s recent initiatives, including new research laboratories and partnerships with international scientific institutions, as evidence of the country’s readiness to contribute to the global quantum agenda. He lauded Ghana’s leadership in championing the UN resolution that led to the declaration of the International Year, describing it as a demonstration of global scientific solidarity.

In a speech read on behalf of the Chief Director, Ms Suwebatu Adam, the Acting Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, reiterated Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its science ecosystem through responsive policies, regulatory frameworks, and international cooperation.

The ceremony concluded with calls for sustained investment in science education, research institutions, teachers, and young learners as the foundation for meaningful participation in quantum science, along with the promotion of ethical innovation, science diplomacy, and collaboration among governments, academia, and industry.

By Cliff Ekuful

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