Mission
Global momentum toward the restoration and expansion of nuclear energy has become more evident due to several factors, such as issues related to stable supply of energy and environment concerns that are symbolized by global warming. Under this circumstance, it is urgently necessary to develop human resources to fulfill the increasing needs of new-build domestic and foreign nuclear facilities. (Omission) The "Nuclear Human Resource Development Network (JN-HRD Net)" aims at securing human resources which support the future nuclear field in Japan. And for the young researchers and engineers in the nuclear field, these activities should contribute in training them to have high quality with an international perspective to work for the world. Furthermore, in cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), human resource development in NPP introducing countries shall be pursued.
Message from Steering Committee Chair
At COP28 in 2023, the importance of nuclear energy, an excellent power source for achieving both decarbonization and economic growth, was recognized in official documents for the first time. Additionally, twenty-five states, including Japan, joined an agreement to triple nuclear generating capacity by 2050. In Japan, too, on the premise of ensured safety, a policy of making maximum use of nuclear power generation was approved by the Cabinet, and various laws were revised and enacted.
At the same time, only 12 nuclear plants are in operation in Japan, one-third of the total of 36, including those under construction. With demand for electricity expected to increase with the booming use of AI and advances toward decarbonization, restarting existing power plants as soon as possible and constructing new and replacement plants are essential.
In order for nuclear power to play its desired role, human-resource development (HRD) presents some of the most critical challenges. With an eye on effective, efficient HRD, the Japan Human Resources Development Network (JN-HRD Net) was established in November 2010. Consisting of eighty-four member organizations from industry, academia, local governments and relevant governmental ministries, JN-HRD Net functions as an HRD platform in and outside Japan, proactively promoting the sharing of information and diverse activities among network members and with international organizations. In order to further enhance its global activities, JN-HRD Net concluded a “Practical Agreement” with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in August 2017.
In April 2019, it established a new working group – the Strategic Working Group (WG) – to develop a national strategy for securing and nurturing nuclear experts and specialists in and outside Japan, and to update the HRD Strategic Roadmap issued by JN-HRD Net in 2014. A 2023 version was issued this past March. The WG also works to further strengthen cooperation with relevant ministries and agencies.
JN-HRD Net will maintain its efforts to build firm, cooperative ties between Japanese and global nuclear energy organizations, and to contribute to the development of nuclear human resources worldwide.
We thank you for your help and cooperation and would be grateful for your continued support.
Chair, Steering Committee, JN-HRD Net
June 2024
Contact us
- Nuclear Human Resource Development Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA)
- Department of Human Resource Develomment, Japan Atomic Industrial Forum, Inc. (JAIF)
- JAIF International Cooperation Center (JICC)
