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Sri Lanka inaugurated its first quantum computer on January 21 at the University of Colombo, marking the country's entry into the quantum computing era. The quantum computer, developed by Chinese company SpinQ, utilizes nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology and will enhance research and education in various fields, including healthcare and cybersecurity.

The event was led by Vice Chancellor Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilaka, alongside notable researchers such as Professor Anuradha Mahasinghe. The university will integrate quantum computing into its BSc Honours programme and launch a certificate course in February to broaden access to this emerging field.

The establishment of the Research and Development Center for Mathematical Modelling of Quantum Computing aims to foster national development through advanced computational capabilities. Sri Lanka is positioned to leverage quantum computing for significant advancements across multiple scientific domains.