Building Africa's
Quantum Future
The QuPhotonics Lab at Stellenbosch University is advancing secure quantum communication and helping position Africa as a contributor to the global quantum science frontier.
Securing Africa's Digital Future Through Quantum Science
Led by experimental physicist Dr. Yaseera Ismail, the QuPhotonics Lab at Stellenbosch University is expanding South Africa’s quantum research capacity and building the next generation of African quantum scientists.
The lab conducts experimental research on optical systems for quantum communication, exploring technologies ranging from secure quantum key distribution to satellite-based quantum links.
As the world moves toward a quantum future, QuPhotonics is helping Africa embrace quantum innovation by developing secure communication infrastructure, training skilled researchers, and building global partnerships.
In 2024, the lab played a key role in establishing the first-ever quantum communication link between South Africa and China — a significant step in connecting the continent to the future of global science and technology.
Our Approach
Our vision is to promote secure quantum communication and the growth of a quantum technology ecosystem in Africa. Our mission is to conduct cutting-edge quantum research, develop skilled quantum scientists, and increase awareness and understanding of quantum science in Africa.
To achieve this, we focus on three interconnected pillars:
Research & Innovation
Advancing secure quantum communication systems tailored to local and global challenges.
Communication and Collaboration
Increasing access to quantum science and fostering cross-border collaboration to grow Africa’s global role.
Training and Mentorship
Equipping a new generation of African scientists through hands-on experimental research.
Our Research
Our research develops secure quantum communication systems tailored to both global standards and local infrastructure. By combining experimental quantum optics, satellite technology, and high-dimensional encoding, we are designing communication systems that are practical, scalable, and secure.
Quantum Network Infrastructure
Developing trusted optical fibre and satellite-based links that can support scalable quantum key distribution, even under challenging atmospheric conditions.
PHOTON SOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Creating miniaturized, table-top entangled photon sources to enable efficient, on-demand quantum communication in real-world systems.
communication in real-world systems.
Channel Capacity & Optimization
Enhancing communication performance using high-dimensional light encoding and machine learning models that simulate and mitigate signal loss.
Connecting Continents Through Quantum Science
In 2024, QuPhotonics was a key partner in establishing Africa’s first quantum satellite link — a historic leap in the continent’s ability to build secure, next-generation communication systems.
At the time, quantum satellite technology had never been implemented on the continent. In collaboration with researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China, the QuPhotonics team established a link between a Chinese quantum satellite and a South African ground station, enabling the exchange of secure quantum encryption keys over intercontinental distances.
“Scientific innovation doesn’t happen in isolation — it requires partnerships, persistence, and the belief that emerging technologies must serve all of humanity.”
Dr. Yaseera Ismail led the South African team, overseeing site selection, technical implementation, and research coordination. Her leadership enabled South African researchers to participate fully in this global experiment, demonstrating the region’s growing role in cutting-edge science.
The project continues to shape the lab’s direction — expanding experimental capabilities, building international partnerships, and helping ensure that Africa is a leader, not just a consumer, of emerging technologies like quantum communication.