Oct 27, 2024

KFUPM & Pasqal: A Quantum Partnership for the Future

At the Aramco Entrepreneurship Summit held at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), Pasqal and King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive advancements in quantum computing research and education in Saudi Arabia. Aligned with KFUPM’s strategic transformation, this collaboration supports Vision 2030’s goal of building a knowledge-based economy in the Kingdom. Pasqal, a leader in quantum computing, creates advanced quantum computers designed to solve real-world challenges, especially in simulation and optimization. This partnership establishes new pathways for quantum innovation, with a focus on three key areas of collaboration:

• Student Engagement: Unique internships and shadowing opportunities will be offered to KFUPM students to cultivate a new generation of quantum innovators.
• Faculty Engagement: A structured knowledge exchange between KFUPM and Pasqal will be established to foster advancements in quantum computing expertise.
• Research Collaborations: Joint research projects will be undertaken, contributing to the growing landscape of quantum technology and its applications.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Ali Al-Shaikhi, Vice President for Research & Innovation at KFUPM, along with Dr. Muhammad Felemban, Director of the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Intelligent Secure Systems at the University, and Christophe Legrand, Senior Vice President of Sales for EMEA at Pasqal, who represented both institutions.