Building a Quantum-Ready Workforce: DOST-ASTI’s QCS Project Sparks New Talent and Innovation for a Quantum-Enabled Economy

22 Nov 2024 11:51 AM

Sta. Mesa, Manila — Quantum computing, a technology that once seemed like a distant concept reserved for tech giants and global research powerhouses, is now becoming increasingly accessible—and the Philippines is determined not to be left behind. The DOST Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), through the Quantum Computing Simulation (QCS) Project, is proactively positioning the country as an emerging player in this revolutionary field.

DOST-ASTI spearheaded recent initiatives that underscore the QCS Project’s mission to cultivate a quantum-literate workforce and build foundational capabilities in quantum computing.

Building Capacity in Quantum Education

The PUP Quantum Computing Lecture Series, held in collaboration with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) College of Engineering, provided foundational knowledge and practical insights into the rapidly advancing field of quantum computing. 

Over multiple sessions which began in March 2024 and concluded on 13 November 2024, faculty members from the PUP College of Engineering delved into topics such as quantum mechanics, qubit manipulation, quantum algorithms, error correction, and quantum cryptography. Technical experts from the QCS Project led the sessions, offering an accessible introduction to quantum concepts and demonstrating their potential impact across various sectors.

Mr. Jeffrey A. Aborot, Supervising Science Research Specialist and Project Leader of the Quantum Computing Simulation (QCS) Project, delivers an engaging lecture on advancements in quantum hardware development.

 

Mr. Ross Romuel A. Mariano, Science Research Specialist II, presents an insightful lecture on quantum image processing. 

The QCS Project team with faculty members from the College of Engineering of PUP Manila during the culmination of the Quantum Computing Lecture Series.

Quantum Hackathon Sparks Ingenuity in Eastern Visayas

On 18 October 2024, the Quantum Computing Hackathon hosted at the University of the Philippines Visayas Tacloban College, and organized by DOST-ASTI's iTANONG and QCS Projects, in partnership with the Quantum Computing Society of the Philippines, brought together young innovators from Eastern Visayas, encouraging them to explore the transformative potential of quantum computing. 

Mr. Aborot delivers a compelling presentation on the QCS Project and the current state of quantum technology development in the Philippines

Seven (7) teams from UP Tacloban, Visayas State University, AMA Computer College, and Philippine Science High School – Eastern Visayas Campus participated in the hackathon. Using Qiskit Blocks—an educational tool that gamifies quantum learning by enabling users to visualize and interact with quantum circuits—participants tackled foundational quantum computing challenges. The event culminated with UP Tacloban Team 2 emerging as champions for their impressive problem-solving skills, showcasing the ingenuity of young Filipino talent.

Participants dive into the Quantum Computing Hackathon at University of the Philippines Tacloban College, using Qiskit Blocks to bring quantum computing concepts to life.

A recurring theme throughout the hackathon and lecture series was the potential for quantum computing to revolutionize industries. In his inspirational message, Dr. Franz de Leon, Director of DOST-ASTI, emphasized that initiatives like the QCS Project are integral to preparing the Philippines for a quantum-enabled economy. He highlighted the far-reaching impacts quantum technologies could have, from breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals and energy optimization to advancements in cybersecurity.

As quantum computing evolves, its potential economic and societal impacts become increasingly evident. Quantum technologies are uniquely positioned to solve complex computational problems currently beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Globally, the quantum computing landscape has seen rapid advancements, with significant progress in hardware, error correction, and practical applications. Innovations such as superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and photonic approaches are creating more scalable and stable quantum systems, while frameworks like Qiskit and Cirq are democratizing access to quantum programming for a growing community of developers and researchers.

For the Philippines, initiatives like the QCS Project are not just about catching up—they are about shaping a future where quantum technology becomes a tool for inclusive development, addressing local challenges while contributing to the global quantum movement. Through sustained efforts, DOST-ASTI is committed to building a vibrant quantum research community in the country. Initiatives like the lecture series and hackathon are laying the groundwork for a quantum-enabled future—one where emerging Filipino talent leads in harnessing this transformative technology for societal benefit.