K L Deemed to be University Hosts Qiskit Fall Fest 2026, Advancing India's Quantum Computing Talent and Innovation
### *"A Decade of Open Access Quantum Computing"*
**October 7-10, 2026 | Peacock Hall, K.L. University, Vijayawada Campus**
**VIJAYAWADA, October 7, 2026:** K.L. University (KLEF), Vijayawada, has commenced **Qiskit Fall Fest 2026**, a four-day celebration of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, research and innovation being held from **October 7 to 10, 2026**, at Peacock Hall, K.L. University, Vijayawada Campus.
Organised under the theme **"A Decade of Open Access Quantum Computing,"** the event brings together academic leaders, faculty members and students to promote awareness, skill development and research in emerging quantum technologies. The programme places particular emphasis on preparing the next generation of engineers and researchers for the rapidly evolving global quantum ecosystem.
The inaugural address was delivered by **Dr. Jagannatha Rao, Pro-Chancellor, KLEF**, who highlighted the urgent need for students to upskill in quantum computing and develop the capabilities required to address complex real-world challenges.
Dr. Jagannatha Rao emphasised that quantum technologies are opening new pathways across several sectors and encouraged students to actively explore emerging **internship and employment opportunities in quantum drug discovery**, both in India and internationally. He also stressed the importance of integrating practical, hands-on components into capstone projects, particularly through collaboration with **biotechnology and research laboratories**, enabling students to strengthen the quality and research impact of their projects and improve opportunities for high-quality scientific publications.
Highlighting the entrepreneurial potential of the field, the Pro-Chancellor also drew attention to the **startup opportunities available within the university ecosystem** and various funding and support schemes available in India for developing innovative solutions in quantum technologies. He encouraged students to look beyond conventional career pathways and consider entrepreneurship and research-driven innovation as important avenues in the emerging quantum economy.
**Dr. K. Bhanu Prakash, Convener of IBM Qiskit Fall Fest 2026**, underscored the growing significance of **Quantum Artificial Intelligence (Quantum AI)** and **quantum drug discovery**. He stressed the importance of immediate upskilling in these areas among both **B.Tech and M.Tech students** across the country, noting that early exposure to quantum technologies can help build a strong talent pipeline for India's future research and technology ecosystem.
The inaugural programme was attended by senior university leadership, including the **Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Pro-Chancellor, and Heads of the Departments of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (AIDS)**, along with faculty members and students.
Qiskit Fall Fest 2026 at K.L. University represents an important step towards strengthening quantum computing education and fostering a culture of **open learning, interdisciplinary research, industry engagement and innovation**. Through such initiatives, the university aims to equip students with future-ready skills and encourage them to contribute meaningfully to India's growing capabilities in quantum computing and allied technologies.
The four-day event will provide students and participants with opportunities to engage with quantum computing concepts, explore emerging applications, develop practical skills and gain insights into academic, research, industry and entrepreneurial pathways in the field.
