Women In Quantum: Zero to Quantum Ready: An Introduction to Quantum Key Distribution
This session was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several dedicated groups, including the IEEE Palestine Student Branch, the IEEE Palestine Computer Society Chapter (PPU), the IEEE WIE ENSIT Student Branch Affinity Group, the IEEE ENSIT Student Branch, the IEEE ENSIT Computer Science Chapter, the IEEE CVR Engineering University Student Branch (India), and the HIDE Tech Club:Tunisia. Their joint commitment to knowledge sharing and community building played a vital role in bringing this event to life.
Session Overview: This is the first session of Women In Quantum
Date: 27/08/2025
Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM (+3 GMT)
Platform: Webex
Speaker: Dr. Richard Pitwon – Expert in Quantum Communications and Global Standards Development
Session Content:
Key Discussion & Activities:
+ Core Topics Covered:
Basics of quantum cryptography and its advantages over classical methods.
Principles of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD).
Real-world applications of QKD in cybersecurity, hyperscale data centers, and global communications.
Challenges in scalability, hardware integration, and standardization.
Future outlook for quantum-ready systems.
+ Interactive Moments:
Q&A Session – Participants raised questions on quantum hardware, real-world deployments, and interdisciplinary research opportunities.
Knowledge Sharing – Insights into the speaker’s personal journey and role in shaping global quantum standards.
Engagement – Students and professionals actively exchanged perspectives on future opportunities in quantum photonics.
Key Takeaways & Outcomes:
Skills & Knowledge Gained:
Clear understanding of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and its significance.
Awareness of real-world applications of quantum cryptography in critical industries.
Insight into current challenges and future directions in quantum technologies.
Impact on Participants:
Increased awareness of quantum technologies and security.
Encouraged collaborations and research interests in quantum photonics.
Boosted IEEE’s role in promoting cutting-edge technology awareness.
Conclusion & Recommendations:
Overall Evaluation:
The session was insightful and forward-looking, providing both technical knowledge and industry perspectives.
Participants were highly engaged, showing curiosity and enthusiasm throughout.
The event successfully aligned with IEEE’s mission to promote advanced technologies and foster a global community of learners and researchers.
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
Agenda
Agenda Breakdown
8:00 PM – 8:10 PM → Welcome & Opening Remarks
-
Introduction of IEEE and session objectives
-
Brief overview of speaker’s background
8:10 PM – 8:40 PM → Foundations of Quantum Cryptography
-
Basics of quantum cryptography
-
Advantages over classical cryptographic methods
8:40 PM – 9:10 PM → Deep Dive into Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
-
Principles and working mechanisms
-
Real-world applications in cybersecurity, data centers, and communications
9:10 PM – 9:30 PM → Challenges & Future Outlook
-
Scalability issues
-
Hardware integration and standardization challenges
-
Roadmap for quantum-ready systems
9:30 PM – 9:55 PM → Interactive Q&A and Knowledge Sharing
-
Audience questions on hardware, deployments, and interdisciplinary opportunities
-
Speaker’s personal journey and role in global quantum standards
9:55 PM – 10:00 PM → Closing Remarks & Takeaways
-
Key learnings recap
-
Encouragement for collaboration and future research
-
Acknowledgments and session closure
Add Event to Calendar