The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and under the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training in Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA), organized a regional training course on "Employing and Qualifying Operating Teams to Ensure the Safety of Research Reactors." The course took place from September 20 to 24, 2026. The event brought together experts and specialists from the IAEA, the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, and the Nuclear and Radiological Control Authority.
The training course had the participation of seven African countries, including Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa. The course aimed to enhance regional cooperation and exchange of expertise among African countries in the field of peaceful uses of atomic energy. Dr. Hassan Saleh, head of the National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, emphasized that hosting this regional event confirms the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority's leading role in supporting scientific and technical capabilities in Africa.
Research reactors are a cornerstone for advanced research, production of medical and industrial isotopes. Dr. Hassan Saleh stressed that the real foundation for ensuring the safety and efficiency of these vital facilities is the "qualified human element." The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority focuses on transferring and localizing expertise, modern nuclear management and safety systems, and opening up integration and cooperation with African countries under the AFRA agreement.
The training course provided a platform to consolidate internationally adopted safety standards and ensure the implementation of the highest levels of qualification and continuous training for operating cadres. This guarantees the safe and sustainable operation of research reactors. Dr. Majdi Zaki, local coordinator of the course, stated that the training program was carefully designed in cooperation with IAEA experts to cover all aspects related to human resource management and qualification of operating teams.
The course included discussions, presentations by participating countries to review their national experiences, and interactive workshops and application groups. The program also included a field visit to the Egyptian Research Reactor-2 (ETRR-2) for participants to learn about Egypt's leading experience in managing and operating research reactors and applying the nuclear safety system and safety culture within the facility.
The course concluded with a session to review and discuss the results of working groups and present the final report of recommendations that contribute to developing training and qualification programs for reactor operators in member states. The event showcased Egypt's capabilities in the field of nuclear energy and its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of research reactors.
Key aspects of the course included enhancing regional cooperation, exchanging expertise, and ensuring the safe operation of research reactors. The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority's efforts to support scientific and technical capabilities in Africa were also highlighted.
Key points
- The course was attended by participants from seven African countries.
- The training program covered various aspects of human resource management and qualification of operating teams.
- The course included a field visit to the Egyptian Research Reactor-2 (ETRR-2).
