Nuclear power key to unlocking Africa’s potential - Ryan Collyer

From October 7 to 11, 2019 in Centurion (South Africa) Rosatom supported the 2nd African Youth Nuclear Summit on the potential of nuclear science and technology applications in Africa.

African Young Generation in Nuclear (AYGN) hosted the event in collaboration with the South African Young Nuclear Professionals Society (SAYNPS).

The conference was fully supported by the World Nuclear Association, African Commission on Nuclear Energy, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy of South Africa, Nuclear energy corporation of South Africa (NECSA), National Nuclear Regulator of South Africa, the International Science and Technology Centre as well as Rosatom and was attended by young professionals and seasoned experts from across the globe.

The conference brought together over 200 of dedicated participants across the continent, from the academia; nuclear research institutions, nuclear service providers, prospective and current operators as well as regulators to share experience, exchange ideas and network on issues related to nuclear science and technology.

“Apart from electricity generation, nuclear technology offers Africans unique and exciting opportunities to benefit health services, agriculture, education, scientific research and industry. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding our industry and we as an industry should stand together and dispel them”

“We are working closely with AYGN to do our part in delivering the great stories from our industry, to highlight its true potential to become a catalyst for sustainable development in Africa. We all understand that nuclear will play a vital role in achieving the United Nations sustainability goals not only in Africa but across the globe”, - stated Ryan Collyer, deputy CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern African in his speech.

AYGN President Gaopalelwe Santswere highlighted that the focus of the conference was to share, exchange ideas and network on issues related to nuclear science and technology as well as demystify nuclear in the region. “The intention to build new nuclear power plants within the African continent has sparked great interest in the field of nuclear science and technologies with more young professionals within the continent taking up careers relating to the industry. The further progress will not succeed without participation of young nuclear professionals and collaborations amongst them. Our first priority is to dispel many misconceptions about the power of atoms and we hope one day the nuclear industry will be celebrated for its grand achievement of bettering the lives of millions across the globe”, - noted Santswere.