Third Webinar: “Opportunities for Youth in the Nuclear Industry”

On February 26, 2026, as part of the international Nurecab project, the Ukrainian Nuclear Society (UkNS) organized a large-scale event: the webinar “Opportunities for Youth in the Nuclear Industry.”

The event demonstrated an exceptionally high level of interest from the educational community. Approximately 200 participants registered, with over 130 teachers and students from schools and vocational colleges joining the live broadcast. Participants included representatives from the Kyiv Energy Vocational College, Kurakhove General Secondary School No. 1, Irpin Vocational College of Economics and Law, and various other educational institutions across Ukraine. This high level of engagement underscores the relevance of career guidance in high-tech sectors critical to Ukraine’s energy security.

Industry Insights and Innovation

The technical session was opened by Yevhen Malyi, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Nuclear Research of the NAS of Ukraine and PhD in Physics and Mathematics. He presented a comprehensive report on the current state of the nuclear industry and its future prospects regarding scientific innovation. The speaker emphasized that modern nuclear energy requires young specialists capable of combining fundamental knowledge with work on next-generation technologies.

The discussion continued with Serhii Vakulich, Deputy Head of Human Resources at the Rivne NPP. He shared practical experience regarding employment at energy enterprises, initiatives for youth and students, and the benefits and social guarantees provided to young specialists choosing to work directly at the power plant.

Higher Education and Career Paths

Special attention was given to professional education. Representatives from the country’s leading higher education institutions presented their curricula and opportunities for applicants:

• Professor Valerii Tuz, Head of the Department of Nuclear Power at Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute (KPI).
• Professor Volodymyr Kravchenko, Head of the Department of Nuclear Power Plants at Odesa Polytechnic National University.
• Pylyp Kuznietsov, Director of the Education and Research Institute “School of Physics and Technology” at V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University.

These presentations provided teachers with a clear understanding of the requirements for future students and the diverse career paths available to graduates.

Innovative Tools for Science Popularization

To conclude the webinar, participants were introduced to innovative tools for popularizing science. A highlight was the unique project “How an NPP Works,” developed by the UkNS branch in Pivdennoukrainsk. This initiative features dynamic simulation games that allow students to understand complex technological processes—from fuel loading to electricity generation—through hands-on practice.

Additionally, educators were encouraged to involve their students in the “Reactor of Knowledge” All-Ukrainian Physics and Mathematics Olympiad, which serves as a vital platform for identifying talented youth.

All teachers who participated in the event will receive official certificates and webinar materials.