Year 2025 was chosen as it recognizes 100 years since the initial development of quantum mechanics. 

• Quantum Science and Technology refers to the study and application of the principles of quantum mechanics, which governs the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic scales.

Foundational concepts of quantum mechanics

• Wave-particle duality: Extremely small objects have characteristics of both particles (tiny pieces of matter) and waves (disturbance or variation that transfers energy).
• Quantum superposition: In quantum mechanics, a particle or system can exist in a superposition of multiple states simultaneously, until it is measured. 
• Entanglement: Two particles are linked up in a certain way, affects one another and remain linked irrespective of the distance. 
• Uncertainty Principle: We cannot know both the position and speed of a particle, such as photon or electron, with perfect accuracy at the same time.

Applications

• Industry and infrastructure: Drives technological innovation and secures financial infrastructures through quantum communication.
• Health & well-being: Quantum photonics is advancing medical imaging and diagnosis and Quantum chemistry is supporting development of new vaccines and drugs.
• Climate action: More energy-efficient and affordable solar cells and low-emission LED light sources and improving accuracy of long-term climate models.