Unlocking Việt Nam's Quantum Potential: A Journey to the Core
In the rapidly evolving landscape of quantum technology, Việt Nam finds itself at a pivotal juncture. With a solid foundation in mathematics and computer science, the country is poised to make significant strides in this cutting-edge field. However, as experts highlight, the journey ahead is not without its challenges, particularly in building expertise in quantum physics and experimental technologies.
The Quantum Race: A Strategic Priority
Việt Nam's recognition of quantum technology as a strategic priority under Resolution 57 is a testament to its commitment to science and innovation. This resolution provides a much-needed policy framework for research, training, and international cooperation. Yet, industry experts emphasize the need to focus on building a strong foundation rather than merely joining the quantum race.
Building the Core: Việt Nam's Advantage and Challenge
Associate Professor Lại Ngọc Điệp, a researcher based in France, highlights Việt Nam's strong young workforce in mathematics and computer science as a significant advantage. These skills are crucial for quantum algorithms, computing, and information processing. However, Điệp notes that Việt Nam's strength lies in the "back end" of quantum technology, particularly in mathematics and computing science. The country now faces the challenge of developing specialized expertise in quantum physics, the core of this revolutionary technology.
Physics, especially quantum physics, is notoriously challenging to attract young talent. Điệp emphasizes the need for dedicated laboratories and equipment to support training and research, enabling Việt Nam to move beyond providing supporting services to foreign companies and instead build its core technologies.
Industry and Research Institutions: Exploring Quantum Frontiers
Businesses like FPT, Viettel, and Phenikaa are actively exploring quantum technology, while universities and the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology are developing training and research programs in this field. Nguyễn Văn Duy, a researcher at Phenikaa University, highlights the lack of dedicated university programs in quantum technology, with existing programs focused on conventional physics.
Duy's research group is working on various areas, including superconducting circuits, quantum gates, and quantum error correction. The intersection of quantum and artificial intelligence is particularly intriguing, with AI potentially aiding in the design of quantum circuits and error correction. However, this field remains in its infancy, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
Growing the Talent Pool: A Collaborative Approach
Researchers emphasize the need to build a comprehensive training and research system that can produce specialists across the entire quantum value chain. Duy suggests creating joint postgraduate programs involving multiple universities, allowing institutions to pool their expertise and infrastructure rather than developing complete programs individually.
Training efforts should also begin at an earlier stage. Duy's research group has organized a summer program introducing quantum technology to high school students, particularly those from specialized physics schools. International cooperation plays a vital role in expanding the talent pool, with Điệp having supervised Vietnamese PhD students in various fields, including quantum technology. These students have gone on to work for French companies developing quantum computers, sensors, and communications.
Bringing Vietnamese scientists back from overseas requires more than just offering salaries. Scientists need access to laboratories, equipment, research teams, and an environment that fosters meaningful work. Điệp believes that suitable mechanisms and policies are essential to encourage Vietnamese researchers abroad to contribute to the development of the sector at home.
Building a Broad Ecosystem: The Expert Perspective
International experts like Denis Avetisian from Rosatom Quantum in Russia emphasize the need for a comprehensive ecosystem. A quantum industry, according to Avetisian, requires a strategy, education, and infrastructure, supported by skilled scientists, engineers, and leaders who understand the technology.
Roberto Mauro, from the French quantum computing company Pasqal, sees Việt Nam's mathematical and physical talent, semiconductor, and electronics base as a significant opportunity. He urges Việt Nam to seize the moment, as the window to enter this field is open now, not in ten years. Pasqal aims to be a long-term partner in Việt Nam's quantum ecosystem, supporting research, training, and practical applications.
Conclusion: A Journey of Patience and Perseverance
Việt Nam's quantum journey is a testament to the country's commitment to innovation and scientific advancement. While the potential is undeniable, turning this potential into a genuine quantum capability will require patience, sustained investment, and a willingness to build from the ground up. Quantum technology is a long-term endeavor, and Việt Nam must be ready to seize the opportunity while the window of opportunity remains open.
