VIENNA, Austria —The International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Permanent Representation to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) facilitated a discussion on the role of young people in the future of the nuclear industry with representatives from around the globe. The two organizations co-hosted a side-event at the 62nd IAEA General Conference over the weekend, with opening remarks from Ambassador Hamad AlKaabi, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the IAEA.

Seeking an answer to the question How are young professionals shaping the future of nuclear power, the side-event panel discussion demonstrated that the investment in advanced nuclear reactor technologies requires an influx of young minds which also sets the stage for future innovations in the industry. With global challenges such as climate change, nuclear security and safeguards, the panel concluded that young, highly-skilled and qualified human resources are needed to continue tackling these issues.

“Since the launch of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program in 2008, we have invested in education and training to ensure that we have the people we need to build and operate the four nuclear reactors at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant,” said Ambassador Hamad AlKaabi, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the IAEA. “Once fully operational, the Barakah plant will supply about 25 percent of the UAE’s electricity.”

“Nuclear science and technology is a global industry that provides millions of people with highly-skilled jobs, contributing significantly to the knowledge-based economy,” commented Luca Capriotti, IYNC President. “The IYNC, as a global network of young professionals, acts as a platform for sharing knowledge and experience across disciplines and national borders. Tackling global challenges such as climate change, food security, and nuclear non-proliferation requires international efforts and young professionals in the industry are committed to addressing these issues”.

In February 2018, the IYNC and the IAEA signed an agreement for joint work in various outreach activities related to climate change, innovation and knowledge transfer in nuclear technologies. IYNC has been an observer at the IAEA General Conference since 2013.

The IAEA General Conference meets annually to consider and approve the Agency’s Program and decide on other matters brought before it. This year marks the 62nd edition of the Conference’s Annual Regular Session. — SG