Tanzania’s nuclear sector has significant potential for growth, but addressing a significant shortage of skilled personnel and an underdeveloped educational infrastructure will be key to unlocking its full capabilities.
Strengthening schooling and training programmes will help accelerate the deployment of nuclear technologies within the country.
The pathway to nuclear expertise begins with education: school students often hesitate to engage with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines, as subjects like mathematics and physics can seem demanding. However, with the right support and encouragement, Tanzania can cultivate a new generation of nuclear specialists.
Many professionals currently engaged in Tanzania’s nuclear technology development – such as engineers, medical practitioners, and other professionals – could benefit from additional training in nuclear science.
Currently, no colleges in Tanzania offer nuclear physics as a core specialization, presenting an opportunity to establish dedicated programmes and partnerships with international institutions.
As Tanzania moves forward with its nuclear ambitions, expanding the talent pool will be essential to keeping pace with industry demands. For example, the Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) is actively working to strengthen its workforce, but long-standing staffing gaps highlight the need for sustained investment in nuclear education and training.
Investments in education and professional training could facilitate the cultivation of highly skilled personnel, thereby fostering innovation, sustainable development, and employment opportunities in the country. If Tanzania aims to build a robust nuclear industry, it must prioritize the development of nuclear expertise both within the sector and among prospective employees, as this represents a critical challenge.
“Given the advancements in uranium extraction technologies, it is critical for the government to devise strategies to address the escalating demand for skilled and experienced professionals in nuclear science. For instance, the safe utilization of uranium across diverse economic sectors is contingent upon the availability of professionals with the requisite expertise,” remarked Maulilio Kipanyula, the Vice Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University in Arusha Tanzania.
Many nations provide support to students and professionals, including international candidates, seeking to enhance their knowledge in nuclear energy. In Tanzania, for example, Rosatom and its subsidiary, Mantra Tanzania, is developing the Mkuju River project. which is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect new jobs.
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To build the necessary expertise, the Russian state corporation offers scholarships to foreign students to study in Russia and acquire the skills necessary for contributing to the nuclear sector. As of September 1, 2024, Rosatom had implemented the Partner Countries scholarship initiative for master’s students from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) nations, Tanzania, and Namibia. By providing financial support throughout their studies, these programmes enable Tanzanian students to gain a world-class education and contribute to the country’s nuclear sector upon their return.
Developing a skilled workforce will not only support Tanzania’s nuclear energy ambitions but also attract foreign investment and drive technological advancements. With a strong foundation of qualified professionals, Tanzania can strengthen energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and position itself as a leader in the regional nuclear industry. These efforts will accelerate the country’s economic trajectory, creating new opportunities for sustainable growth and improving overall living standards
