A seminar in Johannesburg brought together experts to discuss nuclear power, education, water solutions and advanced technologies
Oct 9 (TV BRICS/GNA) – South Africa can expand the peaceful use of nuclear technology to support energy security, industrial development, water availability and scientific education. These issues were discussed at the Nuclear Day: Industrial and Educational Partnership Seminar, held in Johannesburg under the theme “Nuclear Technologies and Education: Energy and Non-Energy Solutions”. This was reported by The Diplomatic Society, a partner of TV BRICS.
The event was organised by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in South Africa and Lesotho and focused on a broad range of nuclear applications. Presentations covered small nuclear power plants, large and floating reactors, radiation protection, radioecology, nuclear desalination, geology and mining education, artificial intelligence, digital twins and the training of nuclear engineering specialists.
South Africa has extensive experience in the peaceful application of nuclear science. The country has developed expertise in nuclear research and the use of nuclear technologies in medicine, agriculture and industry. Its scientific and educational institutions also contribute to the development of specialised skills in the sector.
Education and human-capital development were key topics at the seminar. Discussions highlighted the need to train engineers, scientists, technicians and other specialists required for the development and safe operation of nuclear facilities. Speakers also examined cooperation between universities and industry, geological and mining education, scientific research and the transfer of technical expertise. Masamba Kah, Head of the Industrial and Educational Partnership Project, highlighted the role of industrial and educational partnerships with African countries in building the skills and knowledge needed to support advanced nuclear and related industries.
Ambassador of the Russian Federation to South Africa and Lesotho Roman Ambarov highlighted the growing global interest in nuclear power and its role in providing reliable electricity. He noted that nuclear projects are being developed in countries including China, India, Türkiye, and Egypt, while cooperation in the sector is also expanding across the Global South.
The seminar also examined applications beyond electricity generation. Nuclear desalination can provide heat or electricity for producing fresh water from seawater, while artificial intelligence and digital twins can support monitoring, modelling and maintenance of complex nuclear systems. The discussions highlighted the importance of combining nuclear technology with education, scientific research and technical expertise to support Africa’s long-term development.
GNA/TV BRICS