1. What is the Quantum Impact Hackathon – Rabat 2026?
The Quantum Impact Hackathon – Rabat 2026 is a hands-on, team-based event focused on developing practical quantum computing solutions for real-world challenges with strong societal impact. The hackathon emphasizes applications related to health, clean energy, and climate, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Who can participate as a hackathon participant (hacker)?
Participation is open to:
- Master’s students
- PhD students
- Highly motivated final-year Bachelor’s (BSc / Licence L3) students
- Young researchers or professionals in transition
3. How can students apply to participate?
Students do not apply directly in most cases.
Participation is primarily based on nomination by a faculty member from their home institution.
The nomination is submitted by the faculty member through the official nomination form available on the website.
A limited number of direct applications may be considered in exceptional cases, subject to review by the selection committee.
4. Can a faculty member nominate more than one student?
Yes. Faculty members may nominate more than one student, although final selection will ensure:
- academic quality,
- gender balance,
- geographical diversity,
- balanced representation across institutions.
5. Who can apply as a mentor?
Mentors apply individually through the mentor application form.
Mentors may come from:
- academia,
- research institutions,
- industry,
- international organizations,
and are selected based on expertise, mentoring experience, and availability.
Mentors, speakers, and jury members are recruited internationally (worldwide).
6. Do participants need prior experience in quantum computing?
No advanced prior experience is required.
Basic familiarity with programming, quantum mechanics and strong motivation are sufficient.
Introductory resources and mentoring support will be provided during the hackathon.
Participants with more advanced quantum computing experience are also welcome.
7. What are the main challenge themes?
The hackathon highlights three priority themes:
- SDG 3 – Health & Well-Being
- SDG 7 – Affordable & Clean Energy
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
However, teams may propose challenges related to other SDGs, provided they:
- remain relevant to Morocco and/or Africa,
- have clear societal impact,
- are validated in coordination with their mentors.
8. What is the expected outcome for each team?
Each team is expected to deliver:
- a clearly defined problem statement,
- a proposed quantum or hybrid quantum-classical approach,
- a prototype, simulation, or proof of concept,
- a short final presentation.
Evaluation focuses on relevance, originality, feasibility, and clarity.
9. In which language will the hackathon be conducted?
The working language of the hackathon will be English, particularly for team discussions, mentoring, and final presentations.
10. Is participation free?
Yes. Participation in the hackathon is free of charge.
Depending on available funding, partial support (e.g. accommodation or travel) may be provided to selected participants. Details will be communicated after selection.
11. Will the hackathon be in person or online?
The hackathon will take place primarily in person in Rabat, Morocco.
Limited remote participation may be possible for selected teams or mentors, depending on logistical constraints.
12. How are participants evaluated and selected?
Selection is based on:
- academic background and motivation,
- relevance of skills to the hackathon themes,
- diversity considerations (gender, geography, institutions).
Final evaluation during the hackathon is carried out by an international jury.
13. What are the key dates?
- Nomination deadline: 31 March 2026
- Notification of selected participants: April 2026
- Hackathon dates: 23-25 June 2026
14. Who can I contact for further information?
For any questions, please contact: