The government has announced its intention to create a nuclear training and research center at Soroti University. This decision came after the university generously provided 40 acres of land to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development for this purpose.
Officials from the Ministry, led by Minister of State for Energy Okaasai Opolot, finalized discussions and formalized the arrangement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University regarding the land’s strategic utilization.
Okaasai mentioned that they initially requested 22 acres of land, but the university kindly decided to donate 40 acres. Of this land, 22 acres will be designated for the nuclear training and research center, while the remaining 18 acres will be utilized for student hostels and a hotel to accommodate nuclear students, experts, and guest lecturers visiting the country.
Construction of the nuclear training and research station is expected to commence in 2025, following the completion of feasibility studies.
Okaasai added that students will also receive training in countries such as Argentina, Russia, Korea, and China, whose instructors are affiliated with nations under the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Professor John Robert Ikoja, the Vice Chancellor of Soroti University, expressed that they donated the land strategically to stimulate development and employment opportunities in the region. Furthermore, the establishment of the nuclear training and research center is anticipated to lead to improved infrastructure, including better roads and expanded access to electricity. It may also expedite the government’s plans to establish an international airport in Soroti City.
