IBM to train UNILAG, UI, OAU scholars on quantum computing

Three universities in Nigeria, University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), lle-Ife, Osun State, are among African universities selected for an exceptional opportunity to access IBM’s quantum computing, a first of its kind in the continent.

The organisation, disclosing this to Tribune Online in a statement by its Communications Leader, East and West Africa, Betty Gachenge, said, “IBM is bringing Quantum to Africa and will collaborate with 16 universities across the continent to train students and professors on the functionalities of this new computing paradigm, equipping future generations with the necessary skills for next era of technology.

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“University of Lagos; University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University lle-Ife will have the opportunity to apply for access to IBM Q’s most-advanced quantum computing systems and software for teaching quantum information science and exploring early applications.

“African universities will access IBM’s quantum computer at no cost. Though classical computing has served society incredibly well, many of the world’s biggest mysteries and potentially greatest opportunities remain beyond the grasp of standard computers. To continue the pace of progress, we need to augment the classical approach with a new platform, one that follows its own set of rules. It’s called quantum computing.”