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ISLAMABAD, Feb 05 (APP): In a landmark step towards advancing frontier technologies, Pakistan is set to host its first Quantum Computing Hackathon from February 06-08 at the National Centre for Physics (NCP), bringing together young researchers and innovators from across the country to develop quantum-based solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The three-day event is jointly organized by the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS) and the National Institute of Lasers and Optronics (NILOP), working under the aegis of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), in collaboration with the National Centre for Physics (NCP).
The hackathon is receiving international support from the Open Quantum Initiatives (OQI) and the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN) under a UN-backed science diplomacy initiative.
The overwhelming national response to the event reflects the growing interest in quantum technologies, with more than 950 applications received from across Pakistan.
Following a rigorous selection process, 42 outstanding participants have been shortlisted and grouped into seven teams.
These teams will be mentored by leading national and international experts and will gain hands-on access to advanced quantum processing units to develop innovative solutions.
CERN is supporting the hackathon through technical mentorship, certifications, and prizes, while an international jury comprising experts from the United States, Switzerland, and Pakistan will evaluate the final projects.
The initiative aims to strengthen Pakistan’s quantum research ecosystem, foster innovation among young scientists, and link emerging technologies with national development priorities.
The event will be attended by Vice Chancellors of leading universities, heads of prominent scientific research organizations, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of IT and Telecommunications, Pakistan Academy of Sciences, as well as provincial authorities, highlighting strong institutional support for Pakistan’s entry into the quantum technology era.
The Quantum Computing Hackathon marks a significant milestone in positioning Pakistan within the global quantum research landscape and nurturing the next generation of high-tech innovators.