Ghana will this August become the focal point of global conversations around future technologies and workforce development as it hosts a major international conference integrating quantum science, technical education, and innovation.

The Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition on Education and Skills Development (ARC-EDS 2025) will take place from 5th to 7th August 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre, drawing participants from across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.

This year’s conference is uniquely significant. It will host the flagship African event for the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025)—a global celebration declared by UNESCO to spotlight the transformative power of quantum science and its potential to address pressing global challenges.

The Accra-based gathering, themed “Harnessing Entrepreneurship and Innovation to Tackle Youth Unemployment”, will showcase how quantum technologies, TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training), and industry collaboration can drive innovation, economic growth, and job creation across Africa.

“Quantum science has moved beyond theoretical exploration—it is rapidly emerging as a foundational pillar in advanced computing, cybersecurity, energy infrastructure, and logistics,” said Dr. Augustine Larweh Mahu, a Mathematical/Theoretical Physicist and Lecturer at the University of Ghana, and a a leading voice in Ghana’s IYQ programme.

“ARC-EDS 2025 presents a rare opportunity to bridge this frontier science with real-world training and entrepreneurship,” he added.

Bringing Industry to the Table

Organisers say this year’s ARC-EDS will offer an expanded platform for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to engage with the future of work and technology in Africa.

The conference will feature sector-focused innovation tracks and a dedicated IYQ Innovation Pavilion, where companies can exhibit breakthrough technologies, sponsor student-led showcases, and engage directly with policymakers, educators, and innovators.

Participating firms will also have the opportunity to identify talent from Ghana’s leading STEM and Technical universities and explore partnerships with TVET institutions to shape future-ready skills and training models.

“ARC-EDS 2025 is where Africa’s skills agenda meets its innovation future. Industry leaders have a chance to shape how we train, innovate, and compete globally,” said Sarah Osei, Chair of the Local Organising Committee and Programme Lead at ESDEV Foundation Africa.

“We are creating spaces for technology firms, manufacturers, and service providers to connect with talent and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s transformation.”

Sectors represented will include telecommunications, health, finance, manufacturing, and energy, with a strong showing expected from Ghana’s industrial and state-owned enterprises, including the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Volta River Authority, and Ghana Grid Company.

A Global Moment for Africa

With support from UNESCO, the African Union, UNICEF, British Council Ghana and over 30 universities and scientific institutions worldwide, the event is expected to attract more than 1,000 delegates, including students, researchers, investors, educators, and development partners.

A key highlight will be the launch of the F.K.A. Allotey Lecture Series in Quantum Science and Technology, named after the celebrated Ghanaian physicist.

The inaugural keynote will be delivered by a Nobel Laureate, according to Organisers.The event will also unveil a continental Agenda for Quantum Education, a framework designed to guide curriculum innovation, workforce training, and policy collaboration for quantum technologies across Africa.

Opportunity for Participation

Private sector companies are invited to exhibit technologies, sponsor sessions, or partner with educational institutions to promote innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition on Education and Skills Development (ARC-EDS) is an annual convening initiated by ESDEV Foundation Africa to advance inclusive education, employability, and innovation across Africa.

This year’s edition is being co-organised with the Technical Universities and partners across the public, private, and academic sectors.