Uganda is hosting a high-level international training programme aimed at strengthening human resource development for nuclear experts across Africa, as countries seek to build the skilled workforce needed to safely expand the use of nuclear technology.
The training, organized by the Atomic Energy Council under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Regional Safety Project, has brought together senior officials and technical experts from across the continent to strengthen workforce planning and regulatory capacity.
Speaking during the opening ceremony in Kampala, Atomic Energy Council Chairperson Sam Kinyera Obwoya said the initiative will help regulatory institutions prepare for future workforce demands while building sustainable human resource systems.
«"This training is a critical step towards enabling regulatory bodies to anticipate future workforce needs and establish structured, long-term human resource development plans," Obwoya said.»
He noted that the rapid evolution of nuclear science and technology requires countries to invest in competent and adaptable professionals capable of supporting emerging applications in healthcare, energy, agriculture, industry, and research.
«"As nuclear science and technology continues to evolve, there is a growing need for countries to build competent and adaptive human resources capable of managing emerging technologies while ensuring safety and regulatory excellence," he added.»
The programme is designed to enhance participants' understanding of IAEA guidance, frameworks, and tools used in developing human capital for nuclear regulatory bodies. These tools help institutions maintain the expertise required to effectively oversee the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology.
The training has attracted senior officials responsible for organizational management and competence development in regulatory and technical institutions from several African countries. Discussions are focused on aligning workforce capabilities with national priorities while strengthening independent and effective regulatory systems.
Facilitators emphasized that strong regulatory institutions depend on qualified personnel and well-planned workforce development strategies to guarantee nuclear safety.
Augustine Faanu of Ghana's Nuclear Regulatory Authority said developing a competent nuclear workforce goes beyond academic qualifications.
«"Effective human resource development in the nuclear field must be anchored on a combination of academic knowledge, practical skills acquired through training, and the right professional attitudes," Faanu said.»
He urged countries to develop workforce plans that reflect their unique national circumstances.
«"Human resource development strategies should be tailored to the specific opportunities and needs of each country so they can fully harness the benefits of nuclear technology while maintaining the highest safety standards," he said.»
The Atomic Energy Council, which regulates and licenses the peaceful application of nuclear technology in Uganda, said the training demonstrates Africa's growing commitment to strengthening nuclear safety infrastructure and building the human capacity needed to support the sector.
The IAEA continues to support member states through capacity-building initiatives aimed at promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear science and technology.
The Kampala training is expected to contribute significantly to developing a skilled and resilient nuclear workforce capable of supporting Africa's development ambitions while upholding international nuclear safety standards
