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Quantum future: current progress of quantum technologies

Quantum future: current progress of quantum technologies
Quantum future: current progress of quantum technologies | Photo: Ibrahim Boran

The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025), declared by the UN General Assembly on 7 June 2024, marks a pivotal moment in advancing global scientific collaboration and innovation. As the world commemorates a century since the inception of quantum mechanics, this UNESCO-led initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on quality education (SDG 4), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17). Quantum technologies promise transformative solutions for pressing global challenges, from enhancing medical diagnostics to securing communications and optimising energy systems. Addressing these challenges is critical to fostering a sustainable, equitable global society, ensuring no one is left behind in the quantum revolution.


Quantum science: a catalyst for sustainable progress


Quantum science, encompassing quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials, holds immense potential to reshape industries. According to a 2023 McKinsey report, quantum computing could contribute up to $1.3 trillion to the global economy by 2035, with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, logistics, and renewable energy. For instance, quantum simulations could accelerate drug discovery, reducing development timelines by 30%, directly supporting SDG 3 (good health and well-being). Similarly, quantum-enhanced optimisation models could improve energy grid efficiency, advancing SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy). By fostering innovation, IYQ 2025 aims to catalyse these advancements, ensuring they align with sustainable development priorities.


Empowering education and inclusion


A core objective of IYQ 2025 is to raise public awareness and bolster quantum education, particularly in the Global South and among women in STEM. Currently, only 20% of STEM professionals globally are women, according to UNESCO data, and access to advanced scientific education remains limited in developing nations. Initiatives like the Edinburgh Quantum Hackathon in July 2025 will engage young innovators, fostering skills in quantum programming and problem-solving. These efforts support SDG 4 by promoting inclusive, equitable education and preparing a diverse quantum workforce capable of addressing global challenges.

 

What is Quantum ?

 

Fostering global collaboration


International collaboration is at the heart of IYQ 2025. Quantum technologies require shared expertise and resources, as no single nation can dominate this complex field. The initiative encourages partnerships between academia, industry, and governments, aligning with SDG 17. For example, quantum cryptography could revolutionise secure data transmission, critical for global financial systems and governance. Collaborative projects, such as those under the European Quantum Flagship, have already mobilised €1 billion for research, demonstrating the power of unified efforts. IYQ 2025 seeks to extend such models globally, ensuring equitable access to quantum advancements.


Challenges and opportunities


While the potential is vast, challenges remain. The high cost of quantum infrastructure and the scarcity of skilled professionals could exacerbate global inequalities if not addressed. IYQ 2025’s focus on workshops, hackathons, and open-access educational resources aims to bridge this gap. By 2030, the World Economic Forum estimates a need for 1 million quantum-skilled workers globally, underscoring the urgency of these efforts. Inclusive policies and investments in education will be essential to ensure the benefits of quantum technologies are shared widely, aligning with the SDG ethos of leaving no one behind.

 

The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. By harnessing quantum advancements, the global community can address pressing challenges in healthcare, energy, and security while advancing the SDGs. Readers are encouraged to explore further through resources like UNESCO’s IYQ 2025 portal (www.iyq2025.org) and the Quantum Flagship initiative (quantum-flagship.eu).


Engaging with these platforms offers opportunities to join workshops, follow global quantum developments, and contribute to a sustainable, innovative future.

 

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