China nuclear science youth program wins global industry praise

A science summer camp designed to boost youth engagement with nuclear energy concluded Friday in Hainan, drawing more than 150 experts, scholars and young people from China and abroad.

The 13th "Appealing Nuclear Power Cup" National Nuclear Science Popularization Summer Camp and International Public Communication Activity was co-organized by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) and hosted by Hainan Nuclear Power.

The 13th "Appealing Nuclear Power Cup" National Nuclear Science Popularization Summer Camp and International Public Communication Activity is held in south China's Hainan province, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo courtesy of CNNC]

Paul James, director of Communication and International Affairs at the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) Tokyo Centre, delivered a speech via video link. He said the camp represents China's innovative approach to nuclear public communication, along with its broader industry leadership in operations and management.

Xu Jia, director of the Party-mass Work Department at CNNC, said the broader educational program behind the annual camp has expanded dramatically over its 13-year development. The overall initiative has grown from 6,000 total participants in 2013 to more than 1.3 million people reached today through activities that span nearly 3,000 middle schools across China and have extended to 19 countries.

"Many young participants who grew up with this program have chosen to join the nuclear industry after completing their studies, becoming a new generation of talent driving the sector forward," Xu said.

Peng Xianjue, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) and a nuclear fusion expert, also stressed the importance of engaging youth in nuclear energy's future development. He pointed out that such science communication efforts play a key role in cultivating globally competitive technical talent and urged expanded initiatives to support the industry's long-term growth.

Muhammad Saeed, senior advisor at WANO Shanghai Office, praised the event's global significance. He pointed out that more than 20 countries have pledged to triple nuclear power capacity by 2050, with China demonstrating its industrial strength by simultaneously constructing 40 reactors.

Saeed said public understanding and support are crucial, and sustained, systematic initiatives like the summer camp serve as a key bridge in building trust and consensus between the public and the nuclear industry.

Francois Morin, director for China at the World Nuclear Association (WNA), said the summer camp serves as an exemplary model for global nuclear public communication. He said young people are a priority for nuclear safety education and will help shape the future of energy. Morin said the WNA is committed to enhancing collaboration with the initiative.

The five-day camp, which began on August 5, offered participants an immersive experience combining cultural heritage, technological innovation, and nuclear power exploration. The closing ceremony also saw the release of an international public communication initiative.