IAEA helps boost nuclear education worldwide

By International Atomic Energy Agency

IAEA helps boost nuclear education worldwide

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has kicked off a new service to help countries set up better nuclear education programs. Called INEAS, this advisory program is designed to guide both national projects and universities as they build courses and train future experts in nuclear power and technology, according to a press release.

“With more countries turning to nuclear science, solid education and hands-on skills are a must,” said Wei Huang, who leads the IAEA’s division for nuclear education.

He pointed out that universities play a central role, and that smart planning now means countries can build the talent they need for safe and reliable nuclear work later.

INEAS hit the ground running this year with two missions. In March, the IAEA team headed to Benin to help local officials plan long-term nuclear education, especially in areas like water management, nuclear medicine, and safety. Then in April, the focus shifted to Kazakhstan. More than 90 experts from universities, government, and industry met in Ust Kamenogorsk to develop a new bachelor’s degree for running nuclear power plants at East Kazakhstan Technical University.

The Kazakhstan meeting also featured experts from Belarus and Russia, who shared ideas about curriculum and training. Together, they mapped out how to train more people for the growing nuclear energy sector and use global networks like STAR-NET to boost learning and skills.

By rolling out INEAS, the IAEA hopes to help more countries create strong, practical nuclear education that prepares students for real-world challenges—making sure nuclear technology stays safe, smart, and sustainable.