Rosatom, IAEA Back Global Talent Pipeline Through Obninsk Initiative

 

Moscow: The fourth Obninsk NEW-2026 International Youth Forum concluded in Obninsk, Russi Supported by Rosatom, the Government of the Kaluga Region, and the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, the forum has emerged as one of the world's leading platforms for nurturing the next generation of nuclear professionals. Thousands of additional participants joined virtually through 25 partner broadcasting platforms, making this year's edition the largest so far. a's Kaluga Region, bringing together more than 700 participants from 85 countries to strengthen global collaboration in nuclear education, research and workforce development.


Supported by Rosatom, the Government of the Kaluga Region, and the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, the forum has emerged as one of the world's leading platforms for nurturing the next generation of nuclear professionals. Thousands of additional participants joined virtually through 25 partner broadcasting platforms, making this year's edition the largest so far.


The forum featured addresses from prominent global leaders, including Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, and World Nuclear Association Director General Sama Bilbao y León. A high-level plenary session also included IAEA Deputy Director General Mikhail Chudakov along with senior officials from the nuclear agencies of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.


The programme focused on encouraging youth participation in the nuclear sector while strengthening international cooperation. Morning sessions explored how young professionals can shape the future of nuclear energy, build cross-border collaborations and contribute to the development of a global community of nuclear leaders. Expert panel discussions in the afternoon examined emerging technologies and workforce development, with ITER Organization representative Alexander Alekseev highlighting the growing importance of fusion research.


The forum also served as the centrepiece of a 10-day international educational marathon for young professionals. New initiatives launched during the event included the first modules of the Rosatom Academy-IAEA Human Resource Management Programme for newcomer countries, the Obninsk Tech Summer University, and the international women's leadership programme "Invisible Force."


A key highlight was the signing of two agreements, witnessed by Rosatom, Russia's Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov, and Kaluga Region Governor Vladislav Shapsha, aimed at expanding Russian nuclear engineering education internationally and accelerating the development of the Obninsk Tech educational cluster with support from the IAEA.


The forum also hosted a meeting between Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and the newly appointed members of the Impact Team 2050 International Youth Council, representing 13 countries. Discussions focused on promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy among younger generations and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).


Another significant moment was the launch of the book "Principles in Action," showcasing real-world examples of how the Youth Declaration of Nuclear Cooperation has contributed to advances in education, science, healthcare and environmental protection.


Speaking at the event, Alexey Likhachev said the world's increasing reliance on nuclear power requires not only advanced technologies but also a strong international education ecosystem. He said the Obninsk Tech project, being developed with IAEA support, would help expand Russia's leadership in nuclear engineering education globally.


MEPhI Rector Vladimir Shevchenko said Obninsk Tech aims to become an international hub where students from around the world can learn together, exchange knowledge and build long-term professional networks that will strengthen global nuclear cooperation.

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