Quantum technologies promise revolutionary advances, yet the science behind them remains perplexing even to experts. In this keynote address, Jim Al-Khalili will provide a high-level overview of the ongoing second quantum revolution, which leverages quantum physics effects for practical applications. Using simple terms, it will serve as a primer for the discussions to follow.

Quantum computing draws substantial interest, yet also generates significant hype, making it difficult for non-experts to separate the wheat from the chaff. In this session, panellists will take an honest look at the state of play and ask: What are the promises of quantum computing, and the challenges that remain to be overcome to achieve full-fledged quantum computers? Does quantum supremacy remain a distant prospect or are new approaches, such as hybrid quantum computing systems, the growing embrace of modularity, and the rise of quantum-as-a-service, already paving the way to a quantum advantage?

In this breakout session, participants will discuss the advent of ultra-secure networks thanks to cryptography via the Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) method and assess the extent to which continued innovation may help scale this technology and address its enduring limitations. Discussions will ultimately seek to identify some of the key policy challenges in the field of quantum communication and explore the prospects of the so-called “quantum internet”, which promises to harness quantum entanglement to connect quantum devices and effectively teleport information.

This breakout session will discuss the shortage of skills that has come to represent a major and global roadblock to the quantum revolution and other emerging technologies. Participants will be invited to share their perspectives and policy recommendations for upskilling workers and enabling them to benefit from advancements in quantum technologies. The session will further highlight the need to encourage participation from diverse geographies to address divides and achieve an inclusive technological future.