In a major step toward advancing technological independence and future readiness, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has approved a landmark project titled the “Establishment of the National Center for Quantum Computing (NCQC)” with a significant allocation of Rs. 3.318 billion. This visionary initiative is set to place Pakistan at the forefront of next-generation computing by building national capacity in quantum technologies—a rapidly evolving field with transformative applications across cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, drug discovery, and climate modeling.
The NCQC project is strategically designed to equip Pakistan with cutting-edge infrastructure, top-tier research capabilities, and a highly skilled workforce in quantum computing. It will serve as a foundation for elevating the country’s position in the global tech landscape by supporting a wide spectrum of development activities.
The scope of the project includes civil works such as the installation of HVAC systems and lab-ready infrastructure to support specialized environments required for quantum research. Additionally, the project will establish state-of-the-art quantum computing laboratories and procure advanced equipment to enable world-class experimentation and development.
To ensure a collaborative and inclusive approach, the project will provide licensing, setup, and support to several partner institutions across the country, including HUB, UET Lahore, GIKI, and NED Karachi. This institutional network will help distribute resources, foster innovation, and promote academic excellence nationwide.
Furthermore, the NCQC project will offer MS-level scholarships, international training programs, and support institutional linkages to build a strong talent pipeline in quantum science. It also includes funding for travel and human resource development for researchers and faculty, ensuring their active participation in global forums and knowledge exchanges.
During discussions on the project, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, emphasized the strategic importance of quantum technologies in ensuring Pakistan’s technological independence and competitiveness in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He stated that the NCQC will not only enable critical advancements in science and technology but also serve as a platform for public-private-academic collaboration. This integrated approach will help drive innovation across vital economic sectors and support long-term national development goals.
Prof. Iqbal further noted that the NCQC is part of a broader vision to establish Pakistan as a digital and technological hub. It continues his legacy of setting up National Centers for Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Robotics & Automation, and Cybersecurity—all of which have significantly contributed to capacity building, digital transformation, and fostering innovation across academia and industry.
By enabling cutting-edge research and offering world-class training, the NCQC will serve as a cornerstone for future-oriented policy and technological advancement in Pakistan. It is expected to be a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness in the years to come.
With quantum computing increasingly becoming a strategic priority for many advanced economies, Pakistan’s timely investment in this critical technology signals its commitment to join the ranks of nations shaping the digital future.
