Insider Brief
- Apolitical, with support from Google Quantum AI, has launched a virtual course to help government officials understand and assess quantum computing technology.
- The course features expert-led modules on the fundamentals of quantum computing, its current capabilities, and its potential policy implications.
- Contributors include leading scientists and policy advisors from institutions such as the NQCC, RAND, and the Open Quantum Institute.
A new online course is trying to prepare public officials for the next wave of technological change—one powered by quantum computers.
The course, titled Quantum Computing: Understanding the Technology and its Implications, is being offered by Apolitical, a learning platform for government workers, with support from Google Quantum AI. It’s aimed squarely at policymakers, not physicists, and promises a practical, jargon-free introduction to one of the most complex technologies under development.
Course developers want to make sure that the people who will be shaping future policy understand how quantum computing works, what’s realistic, and what role governments can play, according to course materials, according to a Google blog post.
“By providing policymakers with foundational knowledge about quantum computing, this course aims to ensure they are prepared to engage with and shape the future involving quantum computers, confidently assessing claims and making informed decisions about the technology’s impact and opportunities,” the developers write.
Why Quantum?
Quantum computing, a field still in early stages, uses the principles of quantum mechanics — such as superposition and entanglement — to eventually perform calculations that are infeasible for today’s fastest supercomputers. While its most ambitious applications remain years away, the technology could eventually transform areas like cryptography, materials discovery and complex simulations. For governments, that opens both opportunities and national security risks.
The course is part of a broader push by research institutions and tech firms to bring policymakers into the conversation early, before regulations or funding priorities are set without a clear understanding of the science. Google Quantum AI, one of the technology’s most active corporate backers, said its support of the course reflects a belief that “you don’t need to be a scientist to help shape the future of quantum.”
The virtual course is short, self-paced, and interactive. It includes contributions from a lineup of international experts in quantum science, national security, and policy. Among them are Cathy Foley, former Chief Scientist of Australia; Dr. Catherine Lefebvre, Senior Advisor at the Open Quantum Institute; and Scott Aaronson, professor of computer science and a well-known voice in quantum computing.
Also contributing are officials from leading quantum-focused institutions, including the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), the RAND Corporation, and Quantum Delta NL. The inclusion of experts from both academic and policy-oriented organizations is designed to give participants a view of how governments might both regulate and accelerate development in the space.
“By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to discussions about quantum computing and start to prepare for a quantum future,” developers write in the course description
Key Topics
Key topics include what quantum computers can and cannot do today, how to assess claims about quantum speed-ups, and where public investments and regulatory oversight may be most needed. The course also covers strategic concerns like talent development and international coordination.
The course’s first cohort begins this week. Future sessions are expected to be offered periodically, and public officials can register their interest through Apolitical’s platform.
The initiative follows rising global interest in quantum technology, with the U.S., EU, China, and others ramping up public spending. But there remains a knowledge gap between the scientists building these systems and the public servants writing rules and funding basic research.
That gap is what Apolitical and Google hope to close. “Quantum computing is one of the most exciting technologies of the future,” the course announcement says. “That’s why it’s important to equip policymakers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the opportunities and risks it presents.”
Learn more, or to register, go here.
