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Reflections on the International Year of Quantum Opening Ceremony

Claudia Fracchiolla
Published Feb 14, 2025
Nobel Laureate Prof. Anne L'Huillier

A week after the official launch of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), we reflect on the resounding success of the Opening Ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. With over 1,000 in-person attendees and more than 2,500 participants joining via livestream, the event was a dynamic and inspiring start to a year dedicated to celebrating quantum science and its impact on society.

Over the course of two days, attendees engaged with thought-provoking talks, immersive art installations, and vibrant discussions on how to harness the momentum of this milestone to guide quantum advancements well beyond 2025. The event underscored not only the groundbreaking potential of quantum science but also the importance of global collaboration in ensuring its benefits are widely accessible.

Key Themes from the Ceremony

Ana María Cetto (UNAM) and John Doyle (Harvard/ APS)
Ms Samia Charfi KADDOUR, Professor of Physics at the Faculty of Science of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar; former Director General of Scientific Research at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Tunisia. Prof. Ana Maria CETTO, Professor at the Institute of Physics, the Director of the Museum of Light at the National University of Mexico, the United Mexican States Prof. John DOYLE, Henry B. Silsbee Professor of Physics at Harvard University, President of the American Physical Society; the United States of America.

The Past, Present, and Future of Quantum Science

Nobel Laureates Prof. Anne L’Huillier and Prof. William D. Phillips provided invaluable insights into quantum’s evolution, highlighting both foundational discoveries and the uncertainties that still drive the field. Dr. Phillips and Dr. Aspect pointed out that while we are still uncovering the true capabilities of quantum computing, other quantum technologies are already making significant contributions to society and can play a role in addressing global challenges.

Keynote talk “Watching The Quantum World With Ultrashort Light Pulses” by
Prof. Anne L’HUILLIE, 2023 Nobel Laureate in Physics. 

Building a Future-Ready Quantum Workforce

A central theme was the urgent need for comprehensive education initiatives to prepare the next generation of quantum scientists, engineers, and policymakers. Discussions emphasized that quantum education cannot wait for the future; it must be developed now to ensure a skilled and diverse workforce capable of driving innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

Industry Perspectives: Collaboration, Competition, and Accessibility

Industry leaders addressed the delicate balance between competition in quantum technology development and the need for open collaborations. The debate touched on the urgency of breakthroughs, the ethical implications of quantum applications, and the role of industry in making quantum technologies broadly accessible rather than restricted to a few key players.

Quantum for Sustainable Development

A major focus of the Opening Ceremony was how quantum science can contribute to global challenges, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From quantum-enhanced climate modeling to secure communication systems, speakers explored realistic applications without inflating expectations. The discussion highlighted the importance of managing hype while recognizing the immediate and long-term potential of quantum technologies.

Diversity and Inclusion in Quantum Science

Ensuring equitable access to quantum education and research opportunities was another critical topic. Initiatives such as Girls in Quantum were highlighted as essential to fostering a more inclusive and representative field. Speakers underscored that diverse perspectives will be key to ensuring that quantum technologies serve the needs of all communities, not just a select few.


Ms Lidia BRITO, Assistant Director-General for Natural
Sciences at UNESCO
Mr Cephas Adjej MENSAH, Director of Research, Statistics and
Information Management. Republic of Ghana


Ms Maricela MUNOZ, Director External Affairs, Geneva Science and Diplomacy
Anticipator (GESDA), Switzerland. Dr Dave SMITH, National Technology Adviser, on behalf of the Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Prof. Alain ASPECT, Physicist and 2022 Nobel Laureate in Physics, France. Prof. Stephanie SIMMONS, Founder & Chief Quantum Officer at Photonic, Co-Chair of Canada’s National Quantum Advisory, Canada.

The energy and enthusiasm from the Opening Ceremony have set a strong foundation for the year ahead. As we move forward, we will continue fostering conversations, collaborations, and initiatives that ensure quantum science benefits society in meaningful and lasting ways.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and attendees for making this event such a success. Stay tuned for more exciting events and initiatives throughout IYQ!

The recording of the full ceremony is on the UNESCO YouTube Channel.

Images © UNESCO/Marie ETCHEGOYEN, 2025. All rights reserved.

For general questions about IYQ, please contact info@quantum2025.org. For press inquiries, contact iyq2025@hkamarcom.com.