Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  Uzbekistan recently hosted its first-ever International Quantum Week, an initiative aimed at promoting quantum technologies among students, educators, and industry professionals.

Quantum Week is an educational ecosystem project designed to immerse participants in modern quantum technologies, targeting students, teachers, and university professors. Launched in 2024 by Rosatom – Quantum Technologies and the Russian Quantum Center, the project expanded its reach internationally, starting with Uzbekistan.

Events were held at institutions such as Samarkand State University, Jizzakh Polytechnic Institute, Almalyk Branch of NITU MISIS, Mirzo Ulugbek National University of Uzbekistan, as well as various academic lyceums and schools. The program brought together the scientific community, young talent, and educators specializing in physics and mathematics.

Participants engaged in lectures, hands-on quantum workshops, quizzes, and laboratory visits. Discussions with Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Combine employees explored the potential industrial applications of quantum technologies.

The Russian Quantum Center’s scientists also presented their work at the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan. Speaking at the event, the Center’s General Director, Maxim Ostras, emphasized:
"Quantum technologies are a rapidly developing field. A new technological paradigm is emerging, shaping how society will function in the coming decades. During Quantum Week, we aim to inspire youth by showcasing career paths in this field and highlighting the importance of science. The foundation laid in education today will shape the future. We also seek to collaborate with scientists on cutting-edge trends and innovations to build this future together."

Valeria Kasamara, Deputy General Director of the Russian Quantum Center for Educational Projects, elaborated on the initiative: "This large-scale educational project was conceived to make advanced quantum physics developments accessible to a broad audience. When new concepts emerge, it’s crucial to communicate them clearly. Given the success of Quantum Week in Russia, we decided to extend the project to our friendly and partner countries.

Uzbekistan was a natural choice, as a year ago, our scientist Dmitry Chermashentsev, together with Professor Anvar Zakhidov, established the Samarkand Quantum Center at Samarkand State University. Our partnership has since flourished, making Uzbekistan an ideal location for collaborative projects."

Participating online, Professor Anvar Zakhidov from the University of Texas remarked that Uzbekistan has the potential to become a leader in quantum technologies: "A thousand years ago, Uzbekistan was the cradle of science, the birthplace of algorithms. Today, we are discussing quantum algorithms. Young researchers in Uzbekistan are taking on complex challenges, opening vast opportunities. Collaboration between scientists from our two countries is key to success, and I am confident that we can develop world-class quantum devices."

The Quantum Week project serves as a vital component of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Russia in advancing new technologies.