First Quantum Computing Hackathon ends: Landmark initiative to develop expertise in cutting-edge research domains

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan took a significant step towards advanced scientific and technological capability as the country’s first Quantum Computing Hackathon concluded at the National Centre for Physics (NCP), marking a landmark national initiative to develop expertise in one of the world’s most cutting-edge research domains.

The three-day event was organised under the auspices of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and brought together young researchers, students, and innovators from across the country to develop practical quantum-based solutions to national and global challenges.

Addressing the closing ceremony as chief guest, PAEC Chairman Dr. Raja Ali Raza Anwar described quantum technology as a transformative frontier that is rapidly moving from theory to real-world application. He noted that quantum computing is designed to complement, not replace, conventional computing systems, enabling breakthroughs in fields that require massive computational power. Emphasising the central role of human intellect in scientific advancement, Dr. Anwar highlighted the strong participation of youth and the encouraging gender balance at the hackathon as positive indicators for Pakistan’s scientific future. He urged participants to remain connected beyond the competition and build a sustained national community of quantum innovators.

Earlier, Director General National Institute of Lasers and Optronics (NILOP) Dr. ManzoorIkram outlined the background and objectives of the initiative, noting that the hackathon was conceived following international engagements beginning in May last year, including interactions with Pakistan’s Mission to the United Nations in Geneva and global science diplomacy platforms. He said the event was organised in collaboration with the Open Quantum Institute, CERN, and other international partners to raise awareness of quantum technologies and develop practical quantum algorithms aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Dr. Ikram explained that the hackathon was deliberately held during February, coinciding with the United Nations-designated International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, commemorating 100 years of quantum mechanics. He described the response as overwhelming, with nearly 950 applications received nationwide, from which 42 finalists were selected to compete in seven teams after a rigorous screening process.

Over the course of the event, participants engaged in intensive technical sessions, policy discussions, and hands-on innovation, supported by experts from national ministries, universities, research institutions, and international organisations. The competing teams worked almost continuously to develop quantum-based solutions addressing key challenges, including flood prediction and response systems, early detection of tuberculosis through medical imaging, secure quantum encryption, logistics optimisation, and disease detection technologies for underserved communities.

At the closing ceremony, medals and cash prizes were awarded to the top teams. The Gold Medal, along with a cash prize of Rs 800,000, was awarded to the team that developed a quantum algorithm for early detection of tuberculosis by converting X-ray images into matrix form for quantum analysis. The Silver Medal and Rs 600,000 prize went to a team that designed a quantum-enhanced flood prediction and response system, while the Bronze Medal and Rs 400,000 were awarded for a solution using variational quantum circuits to optimise sensor placement for early warning of cloudbursts and flash floods.

The Quantum Computing Hackathon provided participants with rare hands-on exposure to one of the world’s most advanced technological frontiers and reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to innovation, scientific research, and advanced technology education. The event concluded with participating institutions reaffirming their resolve to continue promoting excellence in emerging sciences.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026