Dr. Zuhair Ahmed Serves as Judge at NYLP × AI Hackathon 2026
CETQAP Founder and Chairman Joins an International Panel of 12 Judges Evaluating Emerging AI Talent at a Youth Innovation Programme
PAKISTAN | OCTOBER 2026 — Dr. Prof. Zuhair Ahmed, Founder and Chairman of the Centre of Excellence for Technology, Quantum and AI Pakistan (CETQAP), has served as a judge at the National Youth Leadership Programme (NYLP) AI Hackathon 2026, an initiative that received more than 980 registrations within just four days of opening.
The 12-day programme, running from October 14 to 25, brought together aspiring innovators to develop practical artificial intelligence projects, explore modern AI tools, and transform ideas into working solutions. Dr. Zuhair Ahmed joined a panel of 12 judges responsible for evaluating project submissions during the October 21–23 assessment period.
His participation highlights the growing intersection of AI education, technology leadership, and youth empowerment, as organisations increasingly create opportunities for emerging talent to gain practical experience in advanced technologies.
980 Registrations in Four Days: A Strong Response to AI Innovation
According to a report published by International Quantum News (IQN), the NYLP AI Hackathon 2026 received more than 980 registrations in its first four days, demonstrating substantial interest in accessible, hands-on AI learning.
The programme went beyond a conventional coding competition. Organisers provided a beginner-friendly toolkit and a live project-building demonstration using Lovable, helping participants engage with AI development regardless of their previous experience.
More than 400 participants were actively involved in building projects, while 55% of participants were new to hackathons. The organisers also delivered 15 mentorship sessions to support participants throughout the development process.
These figures underline an important shift in technology education: creating pathways for beginners to progress from exploring AI tools to building functional products.
Dr. Zuhair Ahmed Joins a Panel of 12 Judges
Dr. Zuhair Ahmed served alongside 11 other judges on the hackathon’s evaluation panel, bringing his experience in quantum technology, artificial intelligence, research, and technology education to the assessment process.
The panel included:
- Amir Khan, Founder of Digital Gravitas
- Dr. Zuhair Ahmed, Founder and Chairman of CETQAP
- Felix Veroya
- Kainat Nadeem
- Dr. Ahthasham Sajid
- Kainat Tanveer
- Umna Iftikhar
- Kawther Bouanani
- Sidra Khan
- M. Shahid Sheraz
- Alishba Eman
- Chern Y. Loo
The judging process formed a central part of the programme, providing a structured opportunity to assess the projects developed by participating innovators.
For young builders, presenting a project for evaluation offers valuable exposure to professional standards and the expectations involved in turning an initial idea into a practical AI-powered solution.
CETQAP’s Founder at the Intersection of Quantum Computing and AI
As Founder and Chairman of CETQAP, Dr. Prof. Zuhair Ahmed leads an organisation focused on quantum computing, artificial intelligence, scientific research, software development, and technology education.
CETQAP’s work includes its PKTron quantum computing software platform, quantum research initiatives, and the QQ1 superconducting quantum processor design project.
His involvement in an AI-focused hackathon reflects the relevance of interdisciplinary technology leadership, particularly as AI and quantum computing continue to develop as important areas of research and innovation.
By contributing to a youth-focused technology competition, Dr. Zuhair Ahmed participated in an initiative aimed at encouraging practical experimentation and expanding opportunities for aspiring AI developers.
From AI Learning to Real-World Opportunities
The NYLP AI Hackathon 2026 also offered incentives designed to extend the value of participation beyond the competition itself.
According to the published report, the winning team was set to receive an internship opportunity at Digital Gravitas. Participants were also due to receive certificates and invitations to attend the Future Opportunities Global Summit on Digital Literacy and Leadership 2026, scheduled for October 30 to November 1 as an online event.
The summit was expected to bring together more than 1,000 delegates worldwide, creating further opportunities for networking and engagement with the global digital literacy and leadership community.
The hackathon was led by Abeerah Ateeq, Lead of Digital Literacy Affairs at NYLP, with support from Saira Maryam, M. Bilal, and Shar Mae Gayangos. NYLP was founded by Khoja Sheraaz Ali and focuses on leadership, innovation, capacity building, digital literacy, and youth empowerment.
A Wider Message for Pakistan’s Technology Future
The significance of the NYLP AI Hackathon 2026 extends beyond registration numbers. Its emphasis on beginner participation, guided development, and project evaluation illustrates how structured programmes can help more young people access emerging technologies.
As AI becomes increasingly important across education, healthcare, business, research, and public services, Pakistan needs opportunities that allow young people to develop practical skills and demonstrate their capabilities.
The participation of technology leaders and researchers as judges can help connect aspiring innovators with broader professional and scientific communities.
