tech
February 22, 2026
Training engineers for nuclear science is a marathon, not a sprint
Serbia has taken a crucial first step, emerging from a decades-long slumber. Awareness among state institutions of the necessity of nuclear energy was the initial spark, but the path from political decision to power plant operation takes ten to fifteen years. Therefore, the right time for action is today.
TL;DR
- Serbia has ended a decades-long moratorium on nuclear power, marking a significant step towards energy independence.
- Miloš Lazarević, a researcher, won an award for his concept of small modular fusion reactors, seen as a future energy solution.
- The path to nuclear energy involves building conventional plants first to gain experience and time for newer technologies like modular reactors to mature.
- Serbia's participation in projects like 'Paks 2' would provide clean energy and invaluable practical experience for its engineers.
- Educational reforms, including establishing nuclear engineering modules at the university level, are crucial for developing the necessary workforce.
- Modern nuclear technology has advanced significantly in safety, incorporating passive systems and learning from past accidents.
- Fusion reactors, using hydrogen isotopes, represent a diverse and advanced future for nuclear energy, moving beyond just uranium.
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