UNESCO Open Learning and Mentorship Programme – for African Women in Quantum Science 2025

Applications are now open for the 2025 UNESCO Open learning and mentorship program. 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.

Eligibility criteria for UNESCO Open Learning and Mentorship Programme for African Women in Quantum Science 2025

• Female PhD students from Africa in STEM fields
• Must be familiar with linear algebra

Selection:

• Based on CV and motivation letter
• Up to 50 participants will be selected

Timeline:

• Call opens: 31 July 2025
• Deadline to apply: 31 August 2025
• Participants announced: Mid-September 2025
• Live training begins: Late September 2025

Application Deadline

The application deadline is  31 August 2025. Interested and qualified Candidates Are To Apply