International Year of Quantum Closing Ceremony

Peter Haynes, PI of the materials for quantum network (M4QN) attended the International Year of Quantum Closing Ceremony in Accra, Ghana from 10-11 February 2026. During the visit Peter gave a talk on the topic of preparing the world for a quantum future: education, skills and youth-led innovation. The talk made reference to the need for materials to support quantum technologies and M4QN in particular. This was followed up by an interview on national TV and a number of other media outlets. 

Peter commented “We discussed how quantum-related skills extend far beyond physics, spanning software, engineering, modelling, and systems thinking, and how job creation is likely to emerge downstream in real-world applications.” 

Given the widespread participation in this event from researchers from around the world, the visit allowed M4QN to be visible on an international stage, established international links in materials for quantum, and helped to promote the UK’s momentum and international leadership in quantum technologies.