Strategic Collaboration Agreement between FreeYa Mind Campus and the Five State Universities of Iași

On December 19, 2024, a landmark collaboration agreement was officially signed between FreeYa Mind Campus and all five state universities in Iași, alongside the Iași County School Inspectorate. This agreement establishes a comprehensive framework to enhance cooperation in education, research, and innovation at both regional and national levels.

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of university rectors, senior academic officials, and local authorities, including Mr. Mihai Chirica, Mayor of Iași, and Mr. Costel Alexe, President of the Iași County Council. Also in attendance were strategic representatives from IBM Quantum, underscoring the global relevance of this initiative.

Participating Academic Institutions

This agreement brings together the cityʼs leading academic institutions in a unified effort to foster the next generation of scientific talent and cross-disciplinary research:

• “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași Prof. Dr. Habil. Liviu-George Maha, Rector Prof. Univ. Dr. Adrian Iftene
• Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iași Prof. Dr. Eng. Dan Cașcaval, Rector Prof. Univ. Dr. Eng. Fiz. Vasile Ion Manta Assoc. Prof. Univ. Dr. Eng. Simona Caraiman
• Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iași Prof. Dr. Viorel Scripcariu, Rector
• University of Life Sciences “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” of Iași Prof. Dr. Eng. Gerard Jităreanu, Rector
• “George Enescu” National University of the Arts of Iași Prof. Dr. Aurelian Bălăiță, Rector
• Iași County School Inspectorate Prof. Dr. Luciana Antoci, General Inspector

Strategic Presence of IBM Quantum

The signing was further strengthened by the participation of representatives from IBM Quantum, reaffirming the strategic alignment between FreeYa Mind Campus and IBMʼs global network of quantum innovation centers:

• Adam Hammond, Business Leader, IBM Quantum EMEA
• Dr. Voica Rădescu, EMEA Lead & Manager, IBM Quantum Innovation Centers

Their involvement highlights the international dimension of the initiative and IBMʼs commitment to supporting education, research, and workforce development in quantum technologies.

Scope and Objectives of the Agreement

This collaborative framework is designed to accelerate innovation and scientific development through:

• Joint research initiatives in quantum computing, AI, and engineering
• Access to cutting-edge infrastructure, including FreeYaʼs underground data center and quantum computing resources
• Expanded student engagement through scholarships, internships, and scientific events
• Professional development opportunities for educators, researchers, and technical specialists
• Support for entrepreneurship, linking academia with industry for quantum-enabled solutions

Strategic Vision of FreeYa Mind Campus

As an official IBM Quantum Innovation Center, FreeYa Mind Campus is guided by a long-term vision focused on:

• Education Offering workshops, certifications, and academic programs in quantum technologies for students and professionals alike
• Research Hosting interdisciplinary research projects supported by robust computational and experimental infrastructure
• Entrepreneurship Cultivating a startup and industry-facing ecosystem that accelerates the practical application of emerging technologies

Regional and International Impact

With the support of local and central authorities and the expertise of IBM, this partnership is set to drive regional digital transformation and position Iași as a strategic bridge between Romania and international centers of technological excellence.

FreeYa Mind Campus will act as a catalyst for advanced research, talent development, and cross-sector collaboration, delivering long-term value to academia, industry, and society.

Conclusion

The signing of this agreement marks a major milestone for the academic and innovation ecosystem in Iași. It reflects a collective commitment to building a resilient and competitive future driven by scientific excellence, technological leadership, and educational impact.