The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology was a global initiative, celebrated throughout 2025, that aimed to strengthen national capacities in the basic sciences and science education. The following events and competitions were held throughout the year to promote awareness of, and get Canadians involved in quantum physics.
Events
IYQ 2025 Opening Ceremonies
February 4, 2025 — UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France
On 4–5 February 2025, UNESCO successfully organized the Opening Ceremony of IYQ at its Headquarters in Paris. Bringing together more than 1000 scientists, policymakers, educators, and industry leaders, the Opening Ceremony set the stage for a year-long global dialogue on how quantum science can drive a more sustainable and inclusive future. Discussions highlighted the transformative power of quantum science, not only in shaping our understanding of the universe but also in tackling critical challenges in healthcare, climate, and secure communications. Speakers emphasized the need to bridge the ‘Quantum Divide’ by ensuring equitable access to quantum technologies through international cooperation, ethical frameworks, and governance mechanisms. The program explored ways to scale quantum innovations, advancing their real-world applications, while also underscoring the importance of public engagement and education in demystifying quantum science and inspiring future generations.
Quantum Canada: Open Doors 2025
May 3, 2025 — Across Canada
At more than 30 institutions and organizations across Canada, the Quantum Open Doors event took place to invite the public to explore and learn about quantum science and technology. From lab tours to public lectures and hands-on activities, this nationwide celebration highlighted Canada’s quantum achievements, engaged communities, and helped inspire the next generation of quantum innovators. Participating organizations included:
- Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL
- York University Keele Campus, Toronto, ON
- Royal BC Museum, Victoria, BC
- University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB
- Lethbridge Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre, Lethbridge, AB
- Ampere’s Iqaluit Makerspace and Kawartha Lakes Makerspace, Lindsay, ON
- SNOLAB at the Greater Sudbury Public Library, South End Branch, Sudbury, ON
- University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
- Institut quantique de l’Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC
- Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics & the Institute for Quantum Computing at the Catalyst Commons, Kitchener, ON
Closing Ceremonies
February 10, 2026 — Accra, Ghana
The Closing Ceremony of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025) took place from 10 to 11 February 2026 in Accra, Ghana, marking the conclusion of a year-long global observance dedicated to advancing quantum science and technology for sustainable development.
Bringing together representatives from Member States, the scientific community, international organisations, partners, and stakeholders from across regions, the event provided a moment of collective reflection on the outcomes and achievements of IYQ 2025, while opening a forward-looking dialogue on the future of international cooperation in quantum science and technology beyond the International Year.
Competitons
IYQ Canada 2025 Design Competition
The Canadian Association of Physicists invited all physics students in Canada to create a design for the Canada-wide celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) – and to compete for the prize of $1000, and see their design on t-shirts, mugs, etc. distributed across the country in 2025!
CAP-IYQ 2025 “Quantum Arts” Competition
Artists across Canada were invited to participate in the CAP–IYQ 2025 “Quantum Arts” Competition, a Canada-wide showcase of creativity inspired by quantum themes. Artwork could be literal or abstract; scientific, humorous, or poetic. The goal was simply to explore how quantum ideas spark imagination. Winning pieces of the competition were divided into three categories: visual arts, performing arts, and literature.