AP to introduce quantum technology courses in schools: CM Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that the state will soon introduce quantum technology courses in schools to equip students with advanced, next-generation skills. Speaking at a meeting with representatives from IIT Madras, the CM emphasized the need to prepare students for emerging opportunities in quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI).

“Soon, we will launch quantum technology courses across schools in the state to provide youth with next-generation skills,” the CM said, highlighting the importance of building awareness of quantum technology at the school level.

IIT Madras representatives presented proposals to provide students with AI awareness through digital platforms in Telugu, English, and Hindi. Starting in 2026, the program will roll out in four phases over two years, offering structured AI orientation, particularly for students in grades 7, 8, and 9. CM Chandrababu also stressed that government school students should have access to these programs and encouraged full utilization of the central government’s NPTEL platform for quantum skills development. Officials were directed to train over 50,000 students and complete the curriculum by January 2026.

To provide a platform for student innovation, the CM announced the “Student Partnership Summit” at the end of January 2026. He urged students to take advantage of opportunities in Andhra Pradesh, which is rapidly emerging as a knowledge hub. As part of a historic quantum lecture, the state launched one of the largest quantum skilling programs in the world, reaching over 50,000 students. CM Chandrababu compared the initiative to Silicon Valley, envisioning “Amaravati Quantum Valley” as a center for the knowledge economy of the future. He also announced plans for local manufacturing of quantum computers in the state within the next two years.

The program is being implemented in partnership with the Washington Institute for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Entrepreneurship, and Research, and Qubitech in India. Remarkably, over 50,000 students registered within just ten days, with women comprising 51% of participants, reflecting the inclusive nature of the initiative.

Addressing students, CM Chandrababu said, “Just as I presented an IT vision 25 years ago, today I present the quantum vision. Amaravati Quantum Valley will transform the state into a hub for the knowledge economy of the future, similar to Silicon Valley in the digital era.” He recalled how historic reforms, including the 1991 economic liberalization and telecom sector growth, shaped India’s knowledge economy, and noted that Andhra Pradesh youth have played a key role in the global IT sector.

The CM highlighted the state’s achievements in manufacturing, noting that 99.2% of mobile phones sold in India are made domestically, with one in every five handsets manufactured in Andhra Pradesh. He also lauded Telugu entrepreneurs globally, citing over 1,200 startups in Silicon Valley and leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies.

CM reiterated that quantum computing is poised to be the next revolution after IT and AI. He announced a cash prize of ₹100 crore for the first Nobel laureates from Andhra Pradesh in quantum science. Echoing his earlier “Intiko IT Employee” vision, he urged students to embrace quantum technology awareness, stressing that innovation and product development are the keys to the future.

The program featured participation from prominent leaders, including IIT Madras Director Prof. Kamakoti, IIT Tirupati Director Prof. Satyanarayana, and Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology Dr. Abhay Karandikar. CM Chandrababu expressed his ambition for Andhra Pradesh to serve as a guiding light in India’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision, with Telugu youth emerging as creators of global wealth.