Challenges & Themes
The Quantum Hackathon – SESAME 2026 focuses on the development of practical quantum computing solutions addressing real-world challenges with strong societal relevance. All challenges are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and are inspired by ongoing development projects and strategic priorities in Middle East.
Participants will work in multidisciplinary teams, supported by international mentors, to explore how quantum computing can offer novel approaches to complex problems that are difficult to tackle using classical methods alone.
Challenge Structure
Each challenge is designed to:
- be grounded in a realistic use case,
- encourage hands-on experimentation with quantum tools,
- allow contributions from participants with diverse backgrounds (physics, computer science, engineering, mathematics, data science),
- result in a proof of concept, prototype, or demonstrator, rather than a purely theoretical study.
Teams are encouraged to focus on:
- problem formulation and modeling,
- algorithmic ideas and feasibility,
- hybrid quantum–classical approaches,
- clarity of assumptions and impact.
Thematic Areas
SDG XX – Water
SDG description
Example challenge directions include:
- point 1
- point 2
Flexibility in SDG Selection
Expected Outcomes
At the end of the hackathon, each team is expected to deliver:
- a clear problem statement and motivation,
- a description of the quantum approach considered,
- a prototype, simulation, or algorithmic proof of concept,
- a short presentation highlighting feasibility, limitations, and potential impact.
Evaluation will emphasize:
- relevance of the problem,
- appropriateness of the quantum approach,
- clarity and originality,
- teamwork and communication.
Tools & Platforms
Participants will be encouraged to use widely accessible quantum computing platforms and frameworks, such as:
- Qiskit and IBM Quantum resources,
- hybrid quantum–classical workflows,
- classical simulators when appropriate.
No prior access to quantum hardware is required.
