About the Workshop

Quantum mechanics is at the heart of cutting-edge technologies, from quantum computers to secure communications. But how can we understand and experience such an abstract and counterintuitive concept?

"My Photonic Ship" is an interactive, hands-on workshop designed for high school students to explore quantum superposition through engaging experiments, programming, and game development.

As part of the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, this event offers a unique opportunity to celebrate quantum advancements together while gaining firsthand experience with quantum concepts in action.

Event Details

📅 Date: Students can join either on Saturday, March 22 or Sunday, March 23. Please indivate your preferred day(s) during registration.

📍 Location: Riga, University of Latvia, Raina 19

⏰ Time: 09:00 – 17:00 (including breaks)

👥 Each session will host between 10 and 25 students.

🗣️ Event Language: English

🔗 Registration: Click here to register

What Will You Learn?

• ✅ Conduct simulated photonic experiments to understand quantum superposition
• ✅ Implement these experiments using Qiskit, a quantum programming library
• ✅ Explore the mathematics and philosophy behind quantum mechanics
• ✅ Develop a classical game and extend it using quantum superposition
• ✅ Collaborate, discuss, and think creatively about quantum technologies

Who Can Join?

This workshop is open to high school students (grades 9–12) with an interest in science, programming, or technology.

Basic programming experience in Python is required.

But no prior knowledge of quantum computing is necessary!

Why Join?

• 🔹 Experience quantum superposition firsthand through interactive experiments and hands-on programming.
• 🔹 Develop real-world skills in game development using Python and Pygame.
• 🔹 Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the philosophical aspects of quantum mechanics.
• 🔹 Work on a unique quantum-inspired game project and see quantum concepts in action.
• 🔹 Collaborate with like-minded peers and develop problem-solving skills.
• 🔹 Earn a certificate of completion to showcase your knowledge of quantum computing and game development.

Workshop Versions

We are offering two versions of the workshop. The final format will be determined based on participant interest during registration.

📌 7-Hour Version (In-Person Only) on Saturday, March 22, 2025

This version provides a deep dive into quantum superposition and game development with Pygame, incorporating quantum superposition concepts into gameplay.

• Morning:
  • Exploring quantum superposition through photonic experiments using a simulator
  • Developing a classical game with Pygame
• Afternoon:
  • Quantum Game Development: Hands-on coding and design activity

📌 10-Hour Version, in-person workshop on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

This version includes a self-paced preparation module and an additional online Q&A session before the in-person event.

🖥️ Before the Workshop

• Self-paced preparation (2-4 hours): "Game Development with Pygame"—familiarize yourself with Pygame basics to maximize your in-person experience.
• Live Q&A session: Wednesday, March 19 Friday, March 21, 19:00 – 20:00—get your questions answered before the workshop.

📅 In-Person Workshop

• Morning:
  • Exploring quantum superposition through photonic experiments using a simulator
  • Implementing these experiments with quantum programming
  • Exploring the mathematical foundations and engaging in philosophical discussions
• Afternoon:
  • Quantum Game Development: Hands-on coding and design activity

📜 Additional Information

• Each version begins with an Anonymous Pre-Questionnaire and ends with an Anonymous Post-Questionnaire.
• The workshop will conclude with a Certificate Ceremony to recognize participants' efforts.

Self-Catering

🍏 Please bring your own snacks and drinks.

💧 Drinkable water will be available, so don't forget to bring your mug or reusable bottle.

🕐 The lunch break will be 1 hour.

Application & Notifications

📝 To apply, please complete the registration form.

📧 The notifications will be sent in a couple of hours during the working hours.

📧 The next notifications will be sent on March 19, 2025 March 17, 2025.

📧 Notifications will be sent by email starting on Friday, March 14, 2025, or once half of the session quota is filled (whichever comes first).

Each workshop will host between 10 and 25 students.

• The applications for the Saturday session will be closed by 20:00, Friday, March 21, 2025.
• The applications for the Sunday session will be closed by noon Friday, March 21, 2025.

If there are not enough applications, we may open the workshop to university students.

📌 Register Now

Workshop Lead & Contact

Assoc. Prof. Abuzer Yakaryilmaz (Department of Computer Science, University of Latvia) will lead the workshop.

For any questions, feel free to contact abuzer [at] lu.lv.

Organizers

This workshop is organized by:

• University of Latvia – Department of Computer science (Faculty of Science and Technology)
• Latvian Quantum Initiative

We celebrate

2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

Support

This event is supported by Start(IT).