UAE Demonstrates Leadership In Nuclear Regulatory Capacity Building At International Conference

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) of the UAE is participating in the International Conference on Nuclear Knowledge Management and Human Resources Development. This event, organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is being held from 1st to 5th July at its headquarters in Vienna, Austria. The conference aims to review global developments related to nuclear knowledge management and human resources development.

Over five days, the conference will cover various themes including nuclear energy policies and their impact on knowledge management and human resources. Topics such as engaging youth through global collaboration, workforce development, and safety culture will also be addressed. These discussions aim to provide participants with practical solutions applicable at organisational, national, and international levels.

During the conference, FANR will present two technical presentations showcasing its regulatory practices to build capacity in the nuclear sector. The first presentation focuses on the Irshaad Youth Programme, a mentorship initiative where senior management mentors young employees. The second presentation is about Iqrab W Ta'alam Session Presentation, an E-Learning Onboarding Programme designed to orient new joiners about FANR’s core business and operations.

FANR will also display two posters highlighting its efforts in capacity building. One poster discusses the Individual Development Plan that identifies staff competencies needs and training requirements. The other poster presents outcomes from the UAE Students Hackathon held last year under the theme "Nuclear Science for Environmental Sustainability and Combating Climate Change." This hackathon saw participation from 30 students across six universities in the UAE.

Awadh AlMur, FANR’s Director of Human Resources, delivered a statement emphasising the UAE's commitment to building national capacity from the inception of its peaceful nuclear energy programme. He stated, "The UAE underscored the importance of building the capacity of its nationals from day one of building its peaceful nuclear energy programme. It has developed and implemented various capacity-building programmes to ensure Emiratis are equipped with the needed talents and competencies necessary for the safe operation of its nuclear power plant."

Leadership and Knowledge Retention

FANR participated in a Plenary Panel on "Leadership and Retaining the Knowledge Base in a Rapidly Changing Nuclear Landscape." AlMur shared insights into UAE strategies for developing leadership and maintaining a robust knowledge base in the nuclear sector. The panel discussed adaptive leadership and innovative approaches to knowledge management crucial for sustaining safe nuclear power programmes.

The UAE has nearly 20,000 workers in its nuclear and radiation sectors, reflecting significant efforts over recent years. AlMur added, "We are proud to say that the UAE has almost 20,000 workers in the nuclear and radiation sectors, which reflects the massive efforts undertaken by the country over the past years. The UAE Nuclear Energy Programme has become a role model for Member States in building and operating its nuclear power plants adhering to IAEA and international safety standards."

The conference provides an opportunity for participants to consider current challenges and opportunities while developing human resources needed for safe nuclear power programmes. FANR’s involvement underscores its commitment to enhancing regulatory practices through continuous learning and development initiatives.

With inputs from WAM