9 June 2026

Youth Nuclear Forum 2026: Joining Forces for the Future of Ukraine’s Energy Sector

From June 4 to 7, the third Youth Nuclear Forum was successfully held at the Rivne NPP site. The event was organized on the initiative of the Ukrainian Nuclear Society (UkrNS) in partnership with JSC “NNEGC “Energoatom” and Rivne NPP. The forum brought together nearly fifty young professionals, scientists, and students from more than twenty organizations, including representatives from the Rivne, Khmelnytskyi, South Ukraine, and Zaporizhzhia NPPs, other branches and the Directorate of Energoatom, as well as specialized enterprises, research institutions, higher education institutions, and the Atomprofspilka (Nuclear Power and Industry Workers Union of Ukraine).

Over four intensive days, the youth learned teamwork, exchanged experiences, and sought innovative solutions for current challenges in nuclear energy. The main objectives of the forum were to raise awareness among young workers, popularize the industry, build a reliable human resource potential, and ensure a live connection and cooperation between different generations of professionals.

During the official speeches and discussions, the management of JSC “NNEGC “Energoatom”, representatives of the Ukrainian Nuclear Society, and union leaders unanimously highlighted the strategic role of youth in the reconstruction of Ukraine and ensuring its energy independence.

Key Highlights and Leadership Statements

During the opening ceremony, Pavlo Kovtonyuk, Acting Chairman of the Board of JSC “NNEGC “Energoatom”, noted that today nuclear generation provides about 60% of Ukraine’s electricity, and in the winter period, this figure rises to 70%, making it the foundation of the state’s and economy’s stability. The head of Energoatom emphasized that post-war reconstruction and capacity expansion require new personnel, which is why it is crucial to engage progressive youth now and put their ideas into practice.

The second day of the YNF was opened by Volodymyr Kholosha, President of the Ukrainian Nuclear Society. He pointed out that the young generation of specialists is the source of progressive ideas and technological changes, particularly in the implementation and development of modern nuclear technologies. He wished the forum participants fruitful work and pleasant impressions during the event.

Program: Theory, Practice, and Case Studies

The forum program harmoniously combined theoretical and practical components. Participants familiarized themselves with the infrastructure of the Rivne NPP by visiting the training center and taking a sightseeing tour around the industrial site. Following this, they transitioned to active teamwork at the “Polissia” information center.

The central event was the defense of case studies, where seven teams presented their vision for the future of nuclear generation. The project topics covered the latest trends:

  • Localization of production for new construction and integration of NPPs into the power system;
  • Enhancing security under modern threats and developing digital infrastructure;
  • Diversification of suppliers in the industry and shaping a human resource ecosystem;
  • Implementation of artificial intelligence technologies.

The victory went to the team represented by young specialists from the “Sun Ukraine NPP” branch, State Enterprise “UDVP IZOTOP”, State Enterprise “SkhidGZK”, and Odessa National Polytechnic University. Their project, “Nuclear AI: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins as Tools for Optimizing NPP Operation and Safety,” proposed a concept for integrating AI into the operations of Ukrainian plants and creating a unified database to systematize operating experience.

Educational Blocks and Mentorship

Participants were offered a powerful lecture and training block. A significant event was an online meeting with Carlos Vázquez-Rodríguez, Chair of the Young Generation Network of the European Nuclear Society (ENS YGN), who spoke about international opportunities and the involvement of youth in global nuclear projects.

As part of the forum’s educational program:

  • Rivne NPP psychologists conducted a training session on teambuilding and effective interaction for the youth;
  • The Youth Organization of the Rivne NPP Primary Trade Union Organization presented their own internal and sports initiatives within the Atomprofspilka Youth Organization;
  • SSTC NRS specialists delivered a lecture on risk management and crisis communications in the nuclear field;
  • Energoatom Directorate representatives familiarized participants with the core principles of building a personnel and scientific ecosystem for Ukraine’s nuclear industry;
  • The Executive Secretary of UkrNS presented the Society’s operations, focusing on initiatives and projects for young people.

In addition to technical cases, young professionals showcased their creativity in the “Nuclear MythBusters” video contest, debunking stereotypes about nuclear energy in a modern and accessible format.

Looking Ahead

The third Youth Nuclear Forum has once again proven that the Ukrainian nuclear industry possesses immense human resource potential. The motivated approach of young specialists, their creativity, and their readiness to take on modern challenges guarantee the reliable and innovative operation of Ukraine’s nuclear sector.

The management of UkrNS separate units and trade unions expressed their readiness to continue fully supporting such initiatives, as past experience shows that the developments from youth forums are successfully implemented directly into production. The participants themselves emphasized that the forum became a unique platform for professional growth. The joint efforts of the Ukrainian Nuclear Society, Energoatom, and Rivne NPP created an effective and efficient environment for unlocking the creative potential of youth, exchanging advanced experience, and generating innovative solutions that will define the vector of domestic energy development for decades to come.