Dr Yousif Al-Nawakhitha, Assistant Professor of Quantum Computing and Cryptography in the Department of Computer Science at the College of Education, Administrative and Technical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University (AGU), delivered a lecture on quantum computing. He reviewed theoretical and practical foundations of this emerging field, highlighting its future impact on cybersecurity and stressing the importance of early preparation for adopting post-quantum encryption standards.

The lecturer addressed the core principles of quantum computing and distinguished it from traditional computing. He elaborated on how quantum properties such as superposition and entanglement can enable unprecedented computational power, with potential to revolutionise fields including big data analytics, artificial intelligence, materials design, and cybersecurity.

He highlighted the potential threats quantum computing poses to current encryption systems and underscored the urgency of transitioning to post-quantum encryption standards to ensure the sustainability of data security in the future. He touched on the possibilities of developing more advanced cybersecurity systems by enabling new types of encryption and innovative verification mechanisms, such as quantum position verification.

Concluding his lecture, he affirmed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among academic departments to harness the full potential of quantum computing and to cultivate quantum understanding and intuition among the next generation of students and researchers.

It is noteworthy that Dr Yousif Al-Nawakhitha is among the national talents sponsored by AGU to pursue postgraduate studies at esteemed international institutions. Upon his return, he contributed significantly to enhancing research and educational capabilities in quantum computing within the university, in line with the university’s vision to develop Gulf human capital in specialised fields critical for the future.

He holds a PhD from the University of Maryland, College Park, and has participated in organising numerous international, multidisciplinary seminars in quantum cryptography, post-quantum cryptography, and quantum information mathematics. His research interests include entanglement cost analysis for quantum protocols, designing near-field quantum encryption protocols, and exploring quantum computing applications across various sectors. In the field of education, he is dedicated to supporting Gulf countries' transition to post-quantum security standards and developing curricula that cultivate strong quantum intuition among future generations.