India introduces first UG program in Quantum Technology to meet global standards

An undergraduate quantum technology curriculum has been announced by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

The curriculum is intended to satisfy the transdisciplinary requirements of developing quantum technology, from basic to applied research, while offering training for creating a trained workforce that meets international standards.

Quantum computing, quantum communications, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices are the four main facets of quantum technology that are covered in the course framework.

According to the statement, the suggested curriculum includes both theory and lab courses and comprises at least 18 credits.

Each course is worth three credits, and one credit is equivalent to one hour of weekly in-class teaching for theory courses or three hours of lab time for lab courses. Consequently, the minor program will need a minimum of six courses.

Apart from this course, the National Quantum Mission, in partnership with AICTE, aims to facilitate the construction of laboratories to improve quantum technology education.

The creation of educational resources and programs targeted at raising knowledge of quantum technology will also be part of this plan.

The program is intended to provide training to produce a skilled workforce capable of achieving global standards.

It will also discuss the transdisciplinary nature of quantum technology development, including both basic and applied research.

“It is designed for undergraduate students to establish a strong foundational and advanced knowledge base, keeping in mind the diversity in the institutions, and will enable all engineering students, irrespective of their disciplines, to undertake a UG minor in quantum technologies from their third or fourth semester,” said Professor Abhay Karandikar, secretary, Department of Science and Technology.