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Commitment to STEM education and skills of critical importance to nuclear’s future
02 October 2020
A new position paper issued by FORATOM states that EU education and training policy must do more to ensure that there is a sufficient number of people with the right skills in the nuclear field.
For nuclear to fulfil its role, alongside renewables, in carbon free energy generation to meet Net Zero targets, and otherwise contribute positively to society for example through nuclear medicine, there must be a strong pipeline of future talent in the industry.
FORATOM’s recommendations include:
- Promoting and making STEM subjects attractive among pupils and implementing policies which encourage young people to study and work in the nuclear field.
- Making sure that all low-carbon technologies are treated on an equal footing in terms of promotion of employment opportunities and funding for education and training.
- More collaboration between policymakers, educational systems and industry to better ensure educational and skills challenges are met.
Kees Jan Steenhoek, Director Government Affairs EU and Urenco’s FORATOM representative said: “We are supportive of this paper and its recommendations in clearly outlining the importance of skills and education for the future of the nuclear industry.
“Urenco is strongly committed to developing our employees and investing in apprentices and new graduates. For younger generations, our global STEM education initiative, the Richie programme, continues to thrive with 80,000 students participating globally in 2019.”
About Urenco
Urenco is an international supplier of enrichment services and fuel cycle products with sustainability at the core of its business. Operating in a pivotal area of the nuclear fuel supply chain for 50 years, Urenco facilitates zero carbon electricity generation for consumers around the world.
With its head office near London, UK, Urenco’s global presence ensures diversity and security of supply for customers through enrichment facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. Using centrifuge technology designed and developed by Urenco, and through the expertise of our people, the Urenco Group provides safe, cost effective and reliable services; operating within a framework of high environmental, social and governance standards, complementing international safeguards.
Urenco is committed to continued investment in the responsible management of nuclear materials; innovation activities with clear sustainability benefits, such as nuclear medicine, industrial efficiency and research; and nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers.
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