Press Release
28th September 2024

WANO signs MOU with International Youth Nuclear Congress at the Young Generation Forum

MOU signing with International Youth Nuclear Congress

The agreement enables both organisations to work closely together to familiarise young professionals with WANO, promote knowledge transfer and facilitation of networking.

Continuing collaboration between WANO and the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) in cultivating the next generation for the industry, on 28 September, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed as part of the WANO’s Young Generation Forum, held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Connecting with WANO’s Young Generation initiative, this MOU is set to ensure future collaboration and close alignment between like-minded organisations on developing the next generation of leaders within the nuclear industry.

The WANO Young Generation (YG) is an initiative providing a valuable platform for early career professionals within the nuclear industry to engage, innovate and connect with like-minded individuals to ignite their imagination and fulfil their curiosity in an evolving industry.

Continuing the collaborative relationship since 2017 when the first MOU was signed, this renewal of the MOU will bring in new opportunities for collaboration in the Young Generation community. The agreement enables both organisations to work closely together to familiarise young professionals with WANO, promote knowledge transfer and facilitation of networking. The initiative empowers nuclear professionals to collaborate and participate in activities – nationally and internationally.

Whilst signing the MOU, Naoki Chigusa, WANO Chief Executive Officer, commented “It is an incredible opportunity for WANO to continue with our close relationship with the IYNC to support future endeavours in engaging those part of the Young Generation community in the nuclear industry. This shows our commitment to our members by fostering individuals new to the nuclear industry and support them in their growth at this important time, and to develop tomorrow’s leaders, today.”

Echoing these sentiments, Kristine Madden, President, IYNC said “At IYNC, we believe that the future of the nuclear industry depends on empowering young leaders. This partnership with WANO underscores our commitment to fostering innovation, promoting knowledge sharing and upholding global safety standards. Together, we look forward to engaging more young professionals and ensuring the growth, safety and sustainability of the nuclear industry worldwide.”

Emanating from the YG initiative, the Young Generation Forum in Abu Dhabi provides an opportunity for early career professionals to connect with like-minded industry peers. The Forum had around 50 participants attending from across the globe and focused on updates from WANO Regional Centres and Offices in Atlanta, London, Moscow, Paris, Shanghai, Tokyo, on their Young Generation activities. Representatives from Regional Centres organised specific activities to engage with nuclear professionals at the early stage of their career, showcasing the opportunities that vary through the regions.