Curriculum declared for MTech in quantum tech

The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), along with the Department of Science (DST), has declared a curriculum for the MTech course on quantum technologies.

The course covers various quantum verticals ranging from computing, communications to sensing and materials, with a focus to give practical training through projects.

National Quantum Mission (NQM) is one of the projects envisioned under PM's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council to position India among the leaders in quantum technology globally.

The curriculum suggests theory and lab courses in this curriculum. The course scheme is split into core courses, specialization electives, open electives and a project. Project-based learning approaches are encouraged to be included by institutions and students wherever feasible to create greater impact through the curriculum. At least 80 credits, it will be distributed over four semesters.

Dr Abhay Karandikar, DST Secretary, added, "Conceived by top experts, the programme weaves together theory, lab training, applied research and actual problems. It will enable students to become innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs and technology leaders in one of the most revolutionary frontiers of science."

He called upon institutes to implement the curriculum voluntarily. "Universities and technical institutions are advised to adopt and implement this programme, creating a sustainable talent pipeline for India's quantum future," Karandikar said.

As per the MTech programme curriculum, systematic training programmes for teachers are required to prepare them to deliver justice to the objectives of the MTech programme.

"Such consistent teacher training initiatives will also improve the quality of the training given to students over years with a long-term payoff and make India a world leader in this area. We also think that a textbook writing exercise should be undertaken to address the requirements of this graduate-level course on quantum technologies," the model curriculum states.