Namibia stands at the crossroads of energy and industrial transformation. As one of the world’s leading uranium producers, the country has the potential to play a key role in Africa’s energy security.
However, unlocking this potential requires more than just resources, it demands a highly skilled workforce. Nuclear education is becoming a critical pathway for Namibia’s sustainable development, fostering the expertise needed for both uranium mining and the broader application of nuclear technology.
Namibia holds significant uranium reserves, contributing around 10% of global uranium production.
According to GlobalData, the country was projected to become the world’s third-largest uranium producer in 2023, with a 14% increase in output compared to 2022. Over the past five years, production has steadily grown, with further increases anticipated in the coming years. This expansion signals not only the growing importance of Namibia in the global nuclear supply chain but also the need for specialised expertise to support the industry’s continued development. The Namibian government has expressed interest in nuclear energy beyond mining, recognising its potential role in energy security. The country still imports most of its electricity and faces power supply challenges, making nuclear energy an avenue worth exploring. However, building a sustainable nuclear sector requires skilled professionals who can operate, regulate, and advance nuclear technologies.
As interest in nuclear energy grows worldwide, collaboration between universities and industry leaders is becoming increasingly essential. Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) plays an important role in training nuclear professionals for Africa and beyond. TPU has been educating specialists for over seventy years, offering comprehensive programmes in nuclear energy and nuclear medicine. Over the years, TPU has hosted students from more than ten African countries, including Namibia, Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia, and Côte d’Ivoire. These programmes not only provide theoretical knowledge but also encourage students to engage in scientific research and gain practical experience.
TPU is a part of the Association of Supporting Universities of Rosatom, a consortium of twenty specialised institutions that coordinate nuclear-related higher education, postgraduate training, and research programmes. This network aligns its educational programmes with the needs of the nuclear industry, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the necessary skills for careers in nuclear science and technology.
Namibian students are eligible for scholarships to study at these universities through a scholarship programme which provides financial and academic support for international students pursuing degrees in nuclear engineering and related fields. In a significant milestone, a Namibian student was recently awarded a Rosatom scholarship, highlighting the growing opportunities for young professionals in Namibia to gain world-class expertise and contribute to the country’s nuclear future.
Beyond education, students need long-term career opportunities to apply their expertise effectively. Many universities, including TPU, have established research and career support centres that help graduates stay connected to the industry, participate in scientific conferences, and access job placements within nuclear-related sectors.
For Namibia to fully capitalise on its nuclear potential, education and industry must evolve together. Colin Namalambo, a distinguished board member of the Namibia Atomic Energy Board and Juror for the Competition “Atoms Empowering Africa”, highlights the importance of aligning nuclear education with industry growth: “The demand for skills must be a response to support the industry. As Namibia’s nuclear sector grows, we must ensure that education evolves alongside it. We must talk about skills development together with the expansion of the industry, creating a workforce that is ready to meet its needs. When we speak with our colleagues in universities, they are always ready to support industries, developing programmes that equip students with the knowledge and practical experience required for the future.”
This interconnected approach ensures that educational programmes align with industry needs, equipping students with practical skills rather than just theoretical knowledge. Universities and research institutions must foster an environment where students not only learn but also actively engage in scientific projects, industry internships, and international cooperation. Practical training is just as vital as academic knowledge, and nuclear education should be structured in a way that enables students to transition seamlessly from learning to professional application. Career support and networking opportunities will also play a crucial role in ensuring that graduates remain within the field and contribute to Namibia’s nuclear ambitions.
The success of Namibia’s nuclear ambitions depends on people – engineers, researchers, and policymakers who will shape the industry’s future. With sustained investment in education, strategic partnerships, and industry-driven training, Namibia is well-positioned to become a leader in nuclear expertise in Africa. As the country strengthens its uranium sector and explores the potential for nuclear energy, empowering young professionals through high-quality education will be the key to long-term success, not just for the nuclear industry but for Namibia’s broader economic and technological growth.
