A technically-skilled, highly-motivated workforce is necessary for the continued success of any industry, and the nuclear field is no exception: it relies on the engagement of students and young professionals to ensure its sustainability. To support the development of new talent for the continued peaceful application of nuclear technologies, the IAEA organized a Workshop for Future Nuclear Leaders in Latin America and the Caribbean from 11 to 15 February in São Paulo, Brazil, to identify, support and strengthen the role played by young professionals, particularly women, in the promotion and implementation of nuclear applications in the region.
Organized through the Regional Cooperation Agreement for the Promotion of Science and Nuclear Technologies in Latin America and the Caribbean (ARCAL), the workshop was supported through an ongoing technical cooperation project [1] and the United States of America. Hosted by the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN) of Brazil, the event was attended by 46 young professionals from nine Member States, including Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Panama, Paraguay and Uruguay.
The attendees, all potential ‘future leaders’ in the nuclear field, presently work in universities or public institutions involved in human health, agriculture or other areas in which nuclear technologies are peacefully and productively applied. Following their participation in the workshop—which focused on demonstrating the nuclear techniques used by Member States to address development challenges, including isotope hydrology, food irradiation and radiotherapy—the young professionals in attendance are expected to become advocates for greater engagement with nuclear science by their respective institutions.
History has shown us that the participation of women has enriched science and nuclear technologies through pioneering contributions.
