AICTE launches India's first UG minor program in quantum technologies; aims to bridge academia-industry gap

NEW DELHI: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), in collaboration with the National Quantum Mission (NQM) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has launched Undergraduate (UG) minor program in Quantum Technologies. The UG Minor Program in Quantum Technologies aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, addressing the evolving strategic needs of the global quantum ecosystem.

This multi-disciplinary program is open to students from all engineering disciplines, starting from their third or fourth semester, making it an inclusive and flexible option. The program spans four critical areas of quantum technology:

• Quantum Computation and Simulation
• Quantum Communication and Cryptography
• Quantum Sensing
• Quantum Materials and Devices

TG Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST, Government of India, Dr Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman, Mission Governing Board, National Quantum Mission, AK Sood, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and Arindam Ghosh, Chairman, Curriculum Drafting Committee were present at the launch event.

UG Minor Program in Quantum Technologies: Key features

• Flexible Curriculum: The curriculum offers students the flexibility to select 18 credits from a pool of over 30 credits. This allows institutions to tailor the program according to their resources and the needs of their students.

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Designed for students from various engineering disciplines, the program emphasizes the convergence of different fields of study, facilitating a broader and more adaptable learning experience.

• Project-Based Learning: A strong focus on hands-on, practical application ensures that students gain real-world experience in quantum technologies, preparing them for industry challenges.

• Faculty Development Programs (FDPs): AICTE, in partnership with leading institutions like IITs, will conduct faculty training programs to ensure that teachers are equipped to deliver high-quality quantum education.

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TG Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, highlighted the transformative potential of the program by saying, "Quantum technology will redefine computing, communication, and sensing. Through this curriculum, we aim to nurture a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and fulfill the goals of the National Quantum Mission. AICTE’s initiatives, including mandatory internships and IDEA Labs, complement this endeavor to create a robust, quantum-ready talent pool.”

Building a Quantum-Ready Ecosystem

The launch also marks the vision to develop a quantum-ready ecosystem in India. Key initiatives under this program include:

• State-of-the-Art Labs: AICTE and DST will support institutions in setting up specialized quantum technology laboratories to foster practical learning.

• Teacher Training & Resource Development: Expert-led FDPs will be conducted to ensure effective delivery of quantum technology courses. Additionally, dedicated textbooks for undergraduate-level quantum education will be developed to sustain the program.

Arindam Ghosh, Chairman of the Curriculum Drafting Committee said, "India ranks second globally in quantum graduates. This curriculum, spanning all quantum verticals, is a vital step in making quantum technology a viable career path for undergraduate students. With its modular and adaptable design, the program ensures inclusivity and excellence across diverse institutions."