ILK statement about the preservation of competence in the nuclear field in Germany

The rapid expansion of nuclear power in many countries was accompanied by an equally rapid buildup of personnel in research and education. German universities had established curricula tailored to the needs of nuclear technology. When the buildup phase had come to an end, manpower was reduced especially in the vendor industries. Over the past ten years, many German universities have adapted to this development by either discontinuing or greatly restricting courses in nuclear technology. ILK is afraid that the progressive reduction of nuclear technology education - also against the background of the opt-out of the use of nuclear power preferred by the German federal government - and a persistently low level of interest, especially among qualified young scientists and engineers, in nuclear technology studies could give rise to a situation in which the preservation of knowledge and know-how in nuclear technology as well as that of a core of competent personnel could be jeopardized. Today's requirements include not only in-depth education in nuclear technology but also the ability to acquire elementary knowledge in the field within the framework of basic studies, or a general studies course, as an interdisciplinary approach. Moreover, education in nuclear technology should not be limited to 'classical' nuclear reactor technology and reactor physics, but increasingly take into account aspects of radiation protection, radiobiology, waste management, systems analysis, risk management, and also nuclear law. More detailed recommendations are given of a systematic approach to the requirements of qualified, comprehensive education in nuclear technology and its structural requirements. (orig.)