External links
- http://www.world-nuclear-university.org
- http://www.world-nuclear.org/
- http://www.wano.info/
- http://www.oecd-nea.org
- http://www.iaea.org
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
 | This article needs additional or more specific categories .(June 2024) |
World Nuclear University (WNU) is a global partnership between World Nuclear Association, the International Atomic Energy Agency, The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency and the World Association of Nuclear Operators committed to advancing international education and leadership in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology. Recognizing that strong leadership is central to the growth and safety of the nuclear industry, World Nuclear University stands at the forefront of leadership training, developing and delivering innovative, world-class programmes that facilitate international partnerships and drive equity, inclusion and diversity of thought.
WNU was created in 2003 on the 50th anniversary of U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower's ‘Atoms for Peace’ initiative, and is recognized as a "Partnership for Sustainable Development" by the UN Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD). It is the leadership development arm of the World Nuclear Association (WNA). Operating as the external educational brand of WNA’s Leadership and Capacity Development Department, WNU focuses on inspiring, empowering, and connecting generations of future nuclear leaders.
WNU delivers professional development programmes that complement in-house leadership training and strengthen capacity within the nuclear sector. Aimed primarily at high-potential mid-career professionals, these programmes combine practical skills, applied learning, and leadership development, providing participants with an international perspective, access to professional networks, and the knowledge and tools needed to address complex challenges and advance their careers while contributing to the growth of the nuclear industry.
Participants are encouraged to think beyond their immediate environment, engaging with diverse perspectives and considering the impacts of their actions at personal, organizational, and community levels. WNU supports participants in unlocking their full potential and achieving both personal and organizational ambitions. Experts, mentors, and speakers involved in WNU programmes challenge participants to develop their skills and knowledge, while programmes are structured to emphasize collaboration, diversity, and the sharing of ideas from across the globe.
The Summer Institute is a unique, five-week professional development programme held annually by the World Nuclear University. Designed for high-potential mid-career nuclear professionals in all areas of the nuclear industry, it provides intensive leadership and professional development through workshops, seminars, mentored group work and interactive sessions focused on strategic thinking, problem-solving, and applied learning.
Participants gain a holistic view of the nuclear industry, develop leadership capabilities, improve communication skills, and are empowered to become drivers of innovation. They also engage with diverse peers, mentors, working groups, and industry experts, applying their knowledge to real-world challenges through group projects, case studies, and site visits. The programme emphasizes collaboration across cultures and professional backgrounds, encouraging participants to consider the broader impact of their work, while fostering a global network of future leaders committed to advancing the nuclear industry.
The LEAD programme is a leadership enhancement initiative of the World Nuclear University, aimed at high-potential professionals identified by their organizations and preparing them for leadership roles in the nuclear sector. Designed to complement in-house leadership training, the programme supports participants in taking on greater responsibilities and contributing to the growth and sustainability of the industry. It combines peer-to-peer learning, case studies, and interactive exercises to develop strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership capabilities.
Key areas of focus include performance, strategy, and transformation, with an emphasis on self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Participants learn to empower high-performing teams, lead organizational change effectively, and develop strategic thinking and planning skills to navigate industry trends and capitalize on opportunities.
The World Nuclear University (WNU) promotes a culture focused on growth, innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and excellence. Its programmes aim to influence and shape the development of participants, attracting individuals with the potential to embody values critical to leadership and high performance. Curiosity and independence of thought are encouraged to foster innovation and adaptability, while diversity and inclusive behaviors are recognized as essential for effective collaboration. WNU also upholds a strong commitment to safety, security, and safeguards, reflecting the pillars of nuclear excellence. The organization's core values are encapsulated in the principle “I CARE”—Inclusion, Curiosity, Accountability, Respect and Empathy, which guide the attitudes and behaviors expected of all participants and members of the WNU community.
As World Nuclear University has evolved in line with the demands of the nuclear energy industry, its remit has shifted to place greater emphasis on leadership and capacity development. Consequently, some programmes previously offered to broader audiences have been discontinued, allowing the organization to focus on developing the competencies of mid-career professionals identified by their organizations as high-potential talent.
The WNU School of Uranium production - focused on all aspects of uranium production, from surveying and exploration, to extraction and ore processing, environmental and health protection and the decommissioning and rehabilitation of mining areas.
WNU also runs a number of short courses, held in collaboration with universities and research centers around the world. The courses focused on "The World Nuclear Industry Today” and were open to all interested participants.
The Nuclear Olympiad - a contest for university students around the world to research and develop a plan for gaining public acceptance of nuclear technology in their country. The Nuclear Olympiad engaged under-graduate and graduate students from around the world on the topic of nuclear applications for global development.
The WNU School on Radiation Technologies - a two-week programme designed for promising young professionals working in radiation-related industries, research institutes and universities. Similar to the Summer Institute, this programme featured lectures, group activities and technical visits. T
The WNU Nuclear English-language courses - enabling day-to-day communication with colleagues, the writing of effective reports and participation at conferences. This course was designed for managers and senior technical staff working in the nuclear field, in an English-speaking environment..
The WNU founding members include the World Nuclear Association (WNA), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the OECD– Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD-NEA), that also compose the WNU Advisory Panel. WNU operates on a cost-recovery basis and, as a not-for-profit organization, relies on support from the nuclear industry, with World Nuclear Association member organizations working alongside the Leadership and Capacity Development team to assemble cohorts of speakers and shape programme content, including that of the flagship programme, the Summer Institute.
The WNU President is Dr Sama Bilbao y Leon, World Nuclear Association Director General. The Head of Leadership and Capacity Building, and therefore, WNU, is Ms. Isis Leslie.
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
| | This article needs additional or more specific categories .(June 2024) |