Bangladesh Targets Nuclear Safety Expertise

Bangladesh must develop internationally trained professionals and strengthen its safety culture as it advances its nuclear power programme, Science and Technology Secretary Md Anwar Hossain has said. Describing the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as a historic milestone in the country’s pursuit of energy security, he stressed that nuclear power generation must be supported by effective operation, regulation and safety systems. The training programme is being implemented to international standards with cooperation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA), Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) and relevant ministries.

Hossain made the remarks as chief guest at the opening ceremony of the four-week Basic Professional Training Course (BPTC) organised by BAERA on Sunday, October 18. The programme will continue until November 12, 2026. Forty early-career scientists and engineers from BAERA, BAEC and the Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL) are taking part.

Focus on safety culture and skilled personnel

The secretary said Rooppur achieved its first criticality on October 11, 2026. He expressed hope that the plant would soon begin contributing to national electricity demand through connection to the national grid.

He emphasised the importance of giving young Bangladeshi scientists and engineers experience aligned with international standards. Technology alone, he said, cannot ensure nuclear safety; personnel involved in the sector must also be properly trained, aware and competent. A strong safety culture is essential at both institutional and operational levels, covering generation, operation and regulation.

Addressing the trainees, Hossain urged them to make full use of the knowledge and experience of IAEA experts and to improve their skills without hesitation. He expressed confidence that the programme would strengthen Bangladesh’s nuclear-sector capacity and contribute to a sustainable future.

Noting the performance of Bangladeshi scientists at the international level, he said officials should develop their skills and take necessary initiatives to secure Bangladesh’s rightful position and participation in the IAEA and other international forums.

Target of three to five qualified regulators annually

The secretary set a target for BAERA to develop three to five internationally qualified nuclear regulators every year over the next three to five years. He said the professionals should be able to contribute not only to domestic responsibilities but also to international nuclear power plants and research organisations.

He highlighted three priorities for strengthening BAERA: building a safety culture in the use of nuclear energy, improving human resources and professional skills, and applying training outcomes in practical work to improve service delivery and performance. He formally inaugurated the course and wished the participants success.

Training for nuclear safety and operations

Speaking as a special guest, BAEC Chairman Dr Moinul Islam said training is a continuous process that improves workplace skills, knowledge and confidence. Developed by the IAEA in 1998, the course helps strengthen technical and technological capabilities at every stage of nuclear facility safety and operation, he said.

The course covers key subjects including nuclear physics, radiation protection, nuclear reactor design, the fuel cycle, waste management and safety assessment. Islam expressed hope that participants would apply their learning to help develop a safe, secure and sustainable nuclear energy programme in Bangladesh.

Preparedness for nuclear and radiological emergencies

Chairing the event, BAERA Chairman Mahmudul Hasan welcomed the IAEA representatives and thanked the agency for supporting human resource development.

He said Bangladesh was advancing its peaceful nuclear energy programme and expanding the use of nuclear technology in different fields. In this context, he described effective preparedness for any nuclear or radiological emergency as a national priority.

Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology Abul Khair Md Akkas Ali also spoke as a special guest. IAEA Technical Officer Rahila Hammad delivered remarks as an honoured guest.

Four IAEA officials and experts will provide training during the four-week programme: Technical Officer Rahila Hammad, IAEA Officer Benoit Gabriel, and IAEA experts Mehmet Tombakoglu and Baris Gurner. Bangladeshi scientists and experts will also contribute to the training.

The ceremony was attended by senior officials from relevant departments, alongside 40 early-career scientist and engineer trainees and officials from BAERA, BAEC and NPCBL.

//DBTech/STMAM/SME/BPO//