Have you always wanted to learn more about quantum computing and AI? Would you like to be part of the next technological revolution? In June, you can attend a lesson given by international experts. This English-language lesson will take place during the World Congress on Computational Intelligence in Maastricht. At this congress, scientists will discuss the latest developments in their field, but they also want to share their knowledge with students in years 4–6 of VWO with a science profile, as well as their teachers.
We are pleased to invite you to a special session on quantum computing and AI, organized as part of the upcoming IEEE World Congress on Computational Intelligence (WCCI) 2026, which will take place in Maastricht, the Netherlands, from June 21 to 26, 2026.
As these groundbreaking technologies are shaping the future but are not yet part of the standard school curriculum, this session has been specially designed to make these complex topics accessible, engaging, and inspiring for secondary school students. The language of instruction for this session will be English.
What will be covered
Today’s computers are amazing, but they are reaching their limits. Imagine being able to solve the most difficult puzzles faster than any regular computer, even puzzles that would take a regular computer years to complete! That is what quantum computing is all about. Quantum computing is a completely new way of thinking. It uses qubits, which can represent 0, 1, or both at the same time. This makes quantum computers extremely fast and highly suitable for difficult tasks such as cracking codes or searching through enormous amounts of data. This technology, combined with AI, creates powerful tools for tackling problems that seem impossible today.
The goal of this workshop is to introduce students and teachers to the world of quantum computing and how it can be used. Participants will leave the workshop not only with a better understanding of quantum computing and AI, but also with the knowledge needed to apply these technologies to solve major real-world problems.
Who is it for
Senior secondary school students, years 4–6 of VWO, with a science profile, or other interested students and teachers in STEM subjects. It is intended for anyone who wants to be part of the next technological revolution and develop computing skills to address real-world challenges in innovative ways.
Format
A 3-hour interactive workshop introducing the fundamental concepts of quantum computing and computational intelligence, followed by a 3-hour hands-on session in which participants will program and use hardware themselves. Please bring your own laptop. The day will conclude with a session in which participants share what they have learned and apply their skills in practice. Between sessions, there will be a lunch break with mentoring and networking opportunities.
When
Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 9:00 to 17:30.
Please note: there will be a competition demonstration session from 9:30 to 10:30.
Location
Room C1.015, Department of Advanced Computing Sciences, Paul Henri Spaaklaan 1, 6229 EN Maastricht, the Netherlands.
How to register
The number of places is limited. Please let us know before June 10 whether your school is interested in participating by registering here (Registration).