International Youth Forum on Sustainable Nuclear Tech Begins in Egypt

The International Youth Forum for Sustainable Nuclear Technologies has been held in Alexandria recently. It has gathered more than 300 young professionals, students, and world leaders from 25 countries, including South Africa and Turkey.

The event has been organised by the Nuclear Power Plants Authority of Egypt (NPPA) in partnership with Rosatom. 

The speakers of the Forum were Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA; Sama Bilbao y León, Director General of the World Nuclear Association, Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom, Mohammed Dwiddar, Chairman of the Board of the Egyptian Nuclear Power Plant Authority (NPPA), and many more. 

The Forum primarily concentrated on the role of nuclear energy in sustainable development, capacity building for the nuclear industry, and youth empowerment programmes, providing a platform for young professionals and students to present innovative research and explore career opportunities. The event emphasised the importance of international collaboration in nuclear research and education to accelerate energy solutions globally. 

At the plenary session participants discussed the impact of nuclear technology on the development of various sectors such as healthcare, electric power, logistics and space. “Nuclear power accounts for 25% of the world’s low-carbon electricity generation, and the contribution of nuclear power plants to reducing carbon dioxide is comparable to that of all of the Earth’s forests. We are proud that our nuclear power plants produce green, clean energy, and in total, Russian-designed NPPs absorb more than 210 million tons of carbon units. This is a matter of pride for us – it is the contribution that nuclear energy makes to the environment and the future of the next generations,” Tatiana Terentieva, Deputy Director General for Human Resources at Rosatom noted. 

Another important topic of discussion at the plenary session was the role and significance of the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) project for the Egyptian economy. The plant has an evolutionary design which fully complies with all international safety requirements and has the potential to modify the energy landscape of the entire African continent.

“The El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant project, a testament to the strategic partnership between the Nuclear Power Plants Authority and Rosatom, is more than just an energy source – it is a driving force for progress, sustainability, and scientific excellence. As we convene today at the International Youth Forum on Sustainable Nuclear Technologies, we reaffirm our shared commitment to a future built on innovation and global collaboration. The expertise and dedication of both the Nuclear Power Plants Authority and Rosatom are shaping a new chapter for Egypt, where nuclear energy stands as a cornerstone of economic growth, strengthens energy security, and accelerates technological advancement,” Dr. Mohammed Dwiddar, Board Chairman of the Nuclear Power Plants Authority of Egypt said. “To the young professionals gathered here – you are the future of this industry. Your passion and contributions will ensure that nuclear energy remains a force for progress, serving humanity and paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous world for generations to come,” he added.

Discussing the role of youth, experts talked about career opportunities in the nuclear industry. Engaging young professionals in nuclear science is crucial for the sustainable development of the industry, as they bring fresh ideas and the drive to improve their communities. To achieve this, it is essential to provide practical training, expert mentorship, and real opportunities, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to safely and effectively advance nuclear technologies worldwide.

“To popularise nuclear among young professionals, we need policies that clearly support nuclear development. The industry must be fair to young people by creating real opportunities—starting with leadership that ensures nuclear construction moves forward. When young people see a tangible future in nuclear, they will pursue careers in the field,” Ms. Princess Mthombeni, Founder of Africa4Nuclear, Member of Impact Team 2050 emphasised. 

Efficient operation of the fuel and energy complex plays a vital role for the state, guaranteeing economic stability and well-being of citizens. Large industry companies are developing production and investing in import-substituting technologies. Rosatom and its enterprises are actively involved in this activity, contributing to the increase in the competitiveness of the nuclear industry. For example, in November 2024 the company organised a discussion on sustainable energy transition in Africa through green innovations at the African Energy Week, reaffirming its role as a crucial partner for African nations, supporting their development of energy systems and contributing to the continent’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.