The initiative is designed to promote research, technology adoption and international cooperation in quantum science, a field increasingly regarded alongside artificial intelligence and semiconductors as one of the world's strategic technologies. Applications span healthcare, finance, logistics, energy, cybersecurity and materials science.
The programme is being organised by the Gia Lai Provincial People's Committee in partnership with the National Innovation Center (NIC), the Vietnam Quantum Innovation and Expert Network (VNQuantum), the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE), the Open Quantum Institute and domestic and international partners. The event aligns with Politburo Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, which identifies the development of strategic and core technologies as a key driver of future economic growth.
According to Nguyen Huu Ha, Deputy Director of Gia Lai's Department of Science and Technology, the event series is intended not only to showcase emerging technologies but also to connect scientists, businesses, universities and the innovation community, creating opportunities for the province to strengthen knowledge exchange, develop human resources and expand research and technology applications.
Gia Lai Quantum Year 2026 is built around four pillars: science and technology, startups, innovation, and education and training. Activities will focus on applying quantum computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning in smart agriculture, logistics, resource management, disaster forecasting, energy and data security.
ICISE will lead the scientific programme by organising conferences, workshops and specialised schools on quantum physics, while fostering collaboration between Vietnamese and international researchers and supporting the development of high-quality scientific talent.
Tran Thanh Son, Deputy Director of ICISE, said participation in Gia Lai Quantum Year 2026 would strengthen links between basic science, applied research and innovation, while helping bring scientific knowledge closer to the wider community, particularly students and young people interested in scientific research.
A key feature of the programme will be the International Hackathon on Quantum Computing for Social Development, known as Quantathon Gia Lai 2026.
The competition will bring together research teams, engineers, students, technology companies and international experts to develop quantum-based solutions for sustainable development.
The final round of the competition will feature 100 contestants from six countries. Beyond the contest itself, participants will have opportunities to engage with experts, businesses and investors to help advance promising projects.
The programme will also include a Quantum, Semiconductor and Superconductor Technology Exhibition, the Expanded Southeast Asia Quantum Coordinator Meeting, the Creative Economy Forum based on Quantum Technology, and networking sessions linking startups, researchers, businesses and investors. Organisers say these activities will provide platforms for knowledge exchange, collaboration and wider adoption of quantum technologies.
VNQuantum is serving as Gia Lai's scientific and technological advisor for the programme while connecting the province with domestic and international quantum research communities.
Associate Professor Nguyen Luong Quang, representing VNQuantum, said the organisation would help develop specialised content, advise on activities suited to Gia Lai's strengths and mobilise leading scientists and experts to participate.
VNQuantum also aims to support Gia Lai in developing a systematic approach to quantum technology, avoiding fragmented investment while gradually building long-term scientific and technological capabilities.
Alongside the technical programme, Gia Lai Quantum Year 2026 will support innovative startups by connecting promising projects with experts, businesses and investment funds. The initiative also places emphasis on knowledge dissemination and workforce development to help build expertise in quantum technology and other strategic industries.
Through the international events and Quantathon Gia Lai 2026, Gia Lai aims to deepen cooperation with scientific institutions, businesses and experts in Vietnam and overseas while expanding its innovation ecosystem and promoting the research and application of quantum technology for socio-economic development.
