Kenya's Nuclear Future: Opportunities for Global Collaboration in Human Resource Development
Human Resources Development (HRD) stands as a critical element among the 19 national infrastructure issues highlighted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for newcomer countries venturing into civil nuclear power programs. As a newcomer in the nuclear power sector, Kenya is actively advancing its human resources, education, training, and research capabilities. Currently positioned at Phase 2 of the IAEA milestone approach, Kenya aims to construct its inaugural nuclear power plant (NPP) by 2031, commencing construction in 2027. A proficient workforce is essential across distinct stages, encompassing pre-project planning, project decision-making, plant construction, operation, and decommissioning.
The Importance of Developing Human Capabilities at the Early Stage of Nuclear Endeavors
The development of human capabilities is a cornerstone in the early stages of any nuclear power program. It is crucial to invest in education, training, and skill development to build a competent workforce that can safely and efficiently operate nuclear facilities. This not only ensures the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants but also fosters a culture of safety and responsibility. By investing in human capabilities early on, countries can ensure that their nuclear power programs are built on a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise. This investment also helps to create a pipeline of skilled professionals who can lead the industry into the future. Therefore, the emphasis on human capability development from the outset is not just important, but essential for the success of a nuclear power program.
Kenya as one of the nuclear frontrunners in Africa has been meticulously preparing for its nuclear power program as it went through two International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) missions in 2015 and 2021. These INIR missions played a pivotal role by providing comprehensive evaluations of Kenya's nuclear infrastructure. The reviews offered valuable insights, recommendations, and suggestions that are instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the nuclear power program. They serve as a guiding framework for addressing challenges, ensuring safety measures, and optimizing the overall efficiency of the initiatives. One of the main focuses of the country is to deal with the challenges involving human capacity building.
Focusing on the Human Resource Development for the nuclear sector, Kenya is actively promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in schools through a campaign. Collaborating with local and international universities, the country is training students in nuclear science and technology, with individuals attending programs in countries such as South Korea, China, Russia, and the USA. The nation is creating partnerships with universities like the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University, for developing undergraduate and graduate programs in nuclear engineering to educate young Kenyans. Additionally, a program for young engineers involves attachments to engineering firms for professional growth. According to Justus Wabuyabo, the CEO of Nuclear Power & Energy Agency (NUPEA), “the establishment of the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) at Konza Technopolis is envisioned as a model institute offering nuclear engineering to build the necessary human capital for the safe operation of nuclear facilities in the country.”
Kenya has academic centers for nuclear science education, most importantly the Nuclear Science and Technology Institute at the University of Nairobi plays a crucial role in advancing peaceful nuclear knowledge through postgraduate studies and research. These centers faced challenges, including low enrollment due to public fear and stigma associated with radiation and nuclear technology. However, with Kenya's announcement of the ambition to employ nuclear power, enrollment is increasing. According to Prof. Elijah Mwangi (Director, Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology and Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of Nairobi), “the key stakeholders in the nuclear sector in Kenya who are currently engaged with the nuclear sector in and out of Kenya were trained most from these indigenous institutions.” Kenyan students conduct research in foreign institutions, particularly in Europe and India, through various exchange programs facilitated by MOUs with numerous countries and institutions. Therefore, Kenya serves as a regional hub, attracting students from various African countries due to its advanced position in the nuclear sector.
Anticipated outcomes related to the Nuclear Science and Technology academic program include economic growth and job creation through various avenues: research and development opportunities, expansion in the education and training sector, job opportunities in supply chain and manufacturing, roles in nuclear safety and regulation, positions in environmental monitoring and management, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, engagement in international collaboration and consulting, job creation in waste management, and contributions to infrastructure development.
NUPEA's Strategic Initiatives, Global Collaborations, and Professional Development Effort
NUPEA principal mandate involves advancing and executing Kenya’s Nuclear Power Program, conducting research and development within the energy sector, and formulating policies and legislation. Additionally, NUPEA is tasked with identifying suitable locations for constructing Nuclear Power Plants.
The organization is actively engaged in Human Resource Development, focusing on training and education to fortify, cultivate, sustain, and implement capacity building initiatives at national, regional, and international levels. Presently, NUPEA is in the process of formulating policies and strategies to achieve a sustainable workforce through improving human capabilities. The capacity building programs encompass education, training, and exercises, while NUPEA also conducts public education and awareness campaigns concerning Kenya’s nuclear power program.
NUPEA's Strategic Plan for 2020/21-2024/25 revolves around three key functions: promoting the development of nuclear electricity generation in Kenya, conducting public education and awareness initiatives on the country’s nuclear power program, and reinforcing human resources development. The organization collaborates with international entities such as the World Bank, UNESCO, and Commonwealth of Learning (COL) on various matters. In its pursuit of professional development in the nuclear field, NUPEA actively seeks partnerships with institutions and professional bodies. Collaborations include entities like the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, Law Society of Kenya, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), Geological Society of Kenya, among others. These partnerships focus on the exchange of knowledge and expertise for mutual growth. Notably, Kenyatta University, in conjunction with the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), hosts a Postgraduate Educational Course (PGEC) on Radiation Protection and the Safety of Radiation Sources for African English-speaking Countries, where NUPEA plays a pivotal role as a key stakeholder.
Kenya collaborates with international partners like IAEA, USA, China, South Korea, and Russia for capacity building in nuclear science and technology. As of December 2021, 222 Kenyans had been trained through the IAEA National Liaison Office (NLO) through training, fellowships, scientific visits, and technical meetings in various countries. Numerous Kenyans have undergone training through short-term, fellowship, and long-term courses offered by these countries. The country considers Human Resource Development pivotal for the safe implementation of its nuclear energy program. The agency actively supports staff training via postgraduate studies and relevant courses, locally and internationally. Additionally, Kenya provides scholarships for students at the Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Nairobi.
Opportunities for International Stakeholders in Human Resource Development in Kenya
As Kenya aims to be a regional hub for nuclear energy and education in Africa, this creates tremendous opportunities for the international community to get involved. Below are some of the potential areas of collaboration:
Building a Skilled Workforce: International Human Resource Development companies can help build a skilled workforce by designing tailored training programs for the nuclear industry, collaborating with Kenyan institutions for specialized courses and on-the-job training initiatives.
Education and Training Services: Collaboration with international education and training companies can enhance the academic foundation of Kenya's nuclear workforce. This includes curriculum development, establishing nuclear engineering programs, and providing advanced training facilities in partnership with local universities.
Technological Advancements and Innovation: International companies with expertise in advanced technologies relevant to nuclear energy can collaborate with Kenyan entities in areas such as reactor design, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and nuclear safety systems. Joint research projects can contribute to integrating cutting-edge technologies into Kenya's nuclear infrastructure.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer: International stakeholders can engage in capacity building by sharing expertise through workshops, seminars, and exchange programs. Collaboration with local institutions can facilitate the transfer of skills and best practices, contributing to the long-term growth of the nuclear industry in Kenya.
Public Awareness and Stakeholder Engagement: Communication and public relations specialists can play a role in building public awareness and fostering positive perceptions of nuclear energy. International companies can contribute by engaging with local communities through outreach programs, educational campaigns, and public forums to create a supportive environment for Kenya's nuclear power program.
In addition to the Nuclear Power Plant, Kenya plans to have a nuclear research reactor operational by 2030 at Konza in Machakos County. The reactor will be deployed for various applications including training, education, research, health, agriculture, and industry. Additionally, with the assistance of the IAEA, Kenya is set to establish an Internet Reactor Laboratory (IRL), providing online access to a research reactor in Morocco for nuclear education and training.
In conclusion, Human Resources Development (HRD) emerges as a pivotal factor in Kenya's burgeoning nuclear power program, the significance of a proficient workforce is paramount. The commitment to HRD is evident across various stages, from pre-project planning to decommissioning, showcasing its integral role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of nuclear facilities.
