Accra:Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has emphasized the need for immediate action to reduce staff attrition at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) and retain skilled nuclear scientists.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings highlighted the importance of retaining specialized personnel to sustain research and develop the expertise required for Ghana's nuclear technology expansion, including power generation. Her remarks were made during a working visit to GAEC in Accra as part of a tour of institutions under her ministry.
She noted the challenge of developing expertise in specialized scientific fields, which necessitates years of training and experience. Addressing the factors contributing to staff attrition was deemed essential, with the Minister advocating for discussions between management and staff to identify and resolve these issues.
The Minister also stressed the need for investments in nuclear infrastructure to be accompanied by efforts to build and maintain a skilled workforce capable of operating such facilities safely and effectively. Additionally, she expressed concern over land encroachment on GAEC properties, calling for audits to protect strategic assets and advising against disposing of land or assets without consultation.
On matters of public safety, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings emphasized the need for increased public education on GAEC's work, particularly concerning nuclear medicine, radiation monitoring, mining, water testing, and archaeological research. She highlighted the importance of informing the public about the risks associated with living near designated buffer zones around mining sites and other facilities, especially where radiation exposure is a concern.
Moreover, the Minister welcomed GAEC's shift from cobalt-based technology to electron-beam technology and underscored the importance of protecting the public from potential hazards. She also suggested making the Commission's observatory more engaging and offering students opportunities to explore careers in space science and technology.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings proposed organizing visits to GAEC facilities for students excelling in national mathematics and science quizzes to introduce them to scientific research and career possibilities. During her visit, GAEC identified several operational challenges, including land encroachment, high staff attrition, inadequate research funding, and high utility bills.
Professor Samuel Dampare, Director-General of GAEC, extended his gratitude to the Minister for her visit and affirmed the Commission's commitment to collaborating with the Ministry to advance nuclear science and technology for Ghana's benefit.