Quantum for Good:
Frontier Technology for the SDGs

The United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC) is organizing the high-level side event Quantum for Good: Frontier Technology for the SDGs during the Summit of the Future Action Days. The event is co-sponsored by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), along with the Republic of Namibia, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the World Economic Forum and Quantum Delta NL. Accenture is generously hosting the event.

Quantum technologies – including computing, sensing, and communication – represent the next frontier of technological advancement, with the potential to revolutionize fields such as climate modeling, drug discovery, financial forecasting, and secure communication. By harnessing the power of quantum mechanics, its applications offer the ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges with unprecedented speed and precision.

In June 2024, the UN General Assembly declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, recognizing the significance of raising public awareness about quantum science and its applications for sustainable development. In this context, this side event will explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies in accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as challenges in unlocking their full impact.

The different discussions will bring together international organizations, Member States, civil society, the private sector and industry leaders, and will feature a distinguished panel of experts from government, industry and academia, addressing several key topics:

  • The current state of quantum technologies and their potential applications in sustainable development
  • Case studies of quantum solutions addressing specific SDGs
  • Strategies for fostering international cooperation in quantum research and development
  • Ensuring equitable access to quantum technologies across developed and developing nations
  • Ethical considerations and governance frameworks for responsible quantum innovation

By bringing together diverse stakeholders, this event will chart a course for leveraging quantum technologies to create a more sustainable and equitable world. It will play a crucial role in shaping the global agenda for harnessing these cutting-edge technologies to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.

Event Details

Date
Friday, 20 September 2024

Time
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (EDT)

Venue
Accenture – One Manhattan West, New York

The deadline for registration is 19 September 2024 (5 PM EDT).

Republic of Namibia

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