A delegation of senior managers from Tarsus University visited the site of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), Türkiye's first nuclear power plant built by the Russian State Nuclear Energy Corporation Rosatom in Mersin. The delegation, which included University Rector Prof. Ali Özen and Vice Rector Prof. Osman Murat Özkendir, closely examined the work at the plant and held discussions on possible collaborations.
Expert Training Profiles and Collaboration Opportunities Discussed
As part of the visit, managers and experts from Akkuyu Nuclear Inc. made a comprehensive presentation to the Tarsus University delegation, including the details of the Akkuyu NPP project and the company's main areas of activity. In the presentation, detailed information was given about the current status of the power plant, its technical specifications and future operating processes. Tarsus University managers conveyed their own expert training profiles and the university's development perspectives for regional and national development.
Ministry of Energy Officials Also Attended the Meeting
The focus of the meetings between the delegations was the training of qualified experts needed for the Akkuyu NPP project. Continuing the interaction on this issue and possible future cooperation projects were discussed. The meetings, which took place in the form of an extended meeting, were also attended by officials from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of the Republic of Turkey, who emphasized the importance of the project in terms of national energy policies and human resources planning.
Education Center and Observation Terrace Visited
After the business-oriented part of the visit was completed, the Tarsus University delegation had the opportunity to see important facilities at the Akkuyu NPP site. First, the modern training center, which provides practical training and professional development for NPP operating personnel, was visited. Here, information was received about simulation technologies and applied training methods. Then, the delegation visited the observation terrace, located 200 meters above sea level, where an impressive panoramic view of the main facilities of the plant can be viewed, and witnessed the size and progress of the project up close.
University Collaboration Emphasis for Sustainable Development of Nuclear Energy
Akkuyu Nuclear Inc. officials emphasized that training young experts and establishing strong relationships with academic circles are among the most critical elements of the sustainable development of nuclear energy in Türkiye. It was stated that professionals from various technical fields such as machinists, field operators and electricians will be employed in Akkuyu NPP, in addition to highly qualified engineers who will take part in the management of reactors, turbines and other vital equipment. It was stated that the training of these experts can be organized in cooperation with regional universities and vocational and technical schools. Akkuyu Nuclear Inc. expressed its satisfaction with the interest shown by the university community in Türkiye's first nuclear power plant project and expressed its belief that cooperation with universities will provide significant momentum to the development of joint initiatives in the fields of education and science.
