Picture: (North West University logo)

THE national Energy department hosted an energy lecture in partnership with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) at North West University Potchefstroom campus on Wednesday.

IAEA director, Amano Yukiya said it was very imperative for any country to use nuclear power sparingly.

He said that the use of nuclear must be safe, sustainable and transparent at all times.

Yukiya further added that countries must always prioritise safety and reduce risks. He said that the use of nuclear will benefit the countries rather than posing as a threat.

Yukiya visited South Africa to attend an International Radiation Protection Agency Conference in Cape Town. As part of this visit DG Amano visited iThemba LABS in Cape Town May 9. 

South African Permanent Mission in Vienna ambassador, Tebogo Seokolo said this initiative will make sure there is no violation of rules regarding the use of nuclear. He said the high-tech use of nuclear power will be taken into consideration.

“Yukiya was on an official visit and he met with minister for energy to share his expertise. He came here to strengthen relationship with South Africa. We are one of the countries using nuclear to generate electricity. South Africa also use nuclear to contribute in health and produces medical isotones,” Seokolo said.

North West University welcomed the expertise shared by Yukiya. Vice-chancellor, Dan Kgwadi said the up and coming scientists and science students will benefit from the lecture.

“This is very important lecture to our students. As the university we are at the forefront regarding science and technology. Our science and technology students learnt a lot on what nuclear can be used. I believe they also learnt how nuclear will benefit our country and Africa as a whole.

According to reports, South Africa is the only African country in the world having a commercial power nuclear power plant. It has two reactors located at the Koeberg nuclear power station and accounts for around 4% of South Africa’s electricity production.

The spent fuel is disposed of at Vaalputs Radioactive Waste Disposal facility.

-TDN

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