The announcement was made at a press conference on July 16, where provincial authorities introduced Gia Lai Year of Quantum 2026 under the theme: "Connecting Quantum – Mastering Technology – Driving Breakthrough Development."

The province hopes the initiative will strengthen access to strategic technologies, expand international scientific cooperation and develop a highly skilled workforce.

The programme will feature a series of conferences, workshops, exhibitions, technology competitions and training activities throughout 2026, involving researchers, businesses, investment funds, educational institutions and young talent from multiple countries.

According to Lam Hai Giang, Vice Chairman of the Gia Lai Provincial People's Committee, the province sees science, technology, innovation and digital transformation as key drivers of socio-economic development.

Guided by the principle of "building early awareness, establishing strong foundations and focusing on suitable priorities," Gia Lai aims to attract scientists, technology experts, businesses, investors and international organisations to participate in research, education and technology development.

Four pillars of the programme

Gia Lai Year of Quantum 2026 is structured around four core components:

Scientific research
Technology development
Startups and innovation ecosystem building
Education and training

Under the scientific research pillar, the International Centre for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE) and the Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Science and Education (IFIRSE) will organise international conferences, workshops and specialised schools on quantum physics.

The technology component will focus on applying quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to smart agriculture, logistics, natural resource management, environmental protection, disaster forecasting, energy and data security.

During 2026, Gia Lai also plans to host a Creative Economy Forum on Quantum Technology, public outreach programmes on quantum technologies and semiconductors, exhibitions featuring quantum, semiconductor and superconducting technologies, and networking activities connecting experts across Southeast Asia.

The initiative also aims to incubate promising research projects and innovative ideas while connecting research teams and startups with businesses, investment funds and innovation support organisations.

In education and training, the province plans to promote quantum knowledge among students and the wider public, while establishing a Quantum Discovery Centre at Quang Trung University.

International hackathon to spotlight quantum innovation

A major highlight of the programme will be Quantathon Gia Lai 2026, an international hackathon on quantum computing for social development, scheduled to take place from July 24 to 28.

The competition will bring together 100 contestants from 11 countries, who will develop solutions using quantum computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning to address socio-economic and sustainable development challenges.

Organisers expect Quantathon to identify promising research teams, innovative ideas and young talent while strengthening collaboration among scientists, businesses and universities.

The event also aims to help establish a quantum technology community in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, expand international partnerships and strengthen links between scientific research and practical applications.

According to Lam Hai Giang, organising the Year of Quantum demonstrates Gia Lai's determination to proactively engage with emerging strategic technologies.

"Gia Lai aims to gradually build capabilities in strategic technologies, connect domestic and international scientific resources, promote research and technological development, foster innovative startups and improve the quality of human resources," he said.

Binh An