Uzbekistan's Atomic Energy Agency (Uzatom) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) launched a joint national seminar on October 12, focusing on modeling tools for the deployment of small modular reactor (SMR) technologies. The seminar, held at Uzatom's headquarters, brings together specialists from Uzbekistan's government institutions, research institutes, design organizations and energy sector entities, alongside international nuclear energy experts.
Participants include Dr. Hadid Subki, IAEA Technical Lead for SMR Technology Development, and Dr. Vladimir Artisyuk, Senior Nuclear Energy Expert. A specialist from Sweden is also taking part in the discussions. During the opening session, Dr. Vladimir Artisyuk highlighted Uzbekistan's experience and potential in nuclear energy development, noting the country's approach to establishing its national nuclear program.
"Uzbekistan is demonstrating a consistent and systematic approach to shaping its national nuclear program. The combination of state support, scientific capacity, and readiness to adopt modern technologies creates a solid foundation for the successful and safe deployment of small modular reactors," Artisyuk said.
The seminar's first day focused on the development of nuclear energy in Uzbekistan, progress in SMR projects and technologies, and the technical characteristics of integral pressurized-water small modular reactors. Participants also examined approaches to nuclear fuel design, innovative fuel cycles and economic projections related to SMR technologies.
IAEA experts Hadid Subki and Vladimir Artisyuk presented modeling approaches and simulation tools used in nuclear energy education and training. The presentations included an overview of IAEA simulators designed to support personnel training and technical understanding of nuclear reactor operations. Particular attention was given to the integrated pressurized-water reactor (PWR) simulator and its application in educational programs.
The sessions also addressed the practical use of modeling tools in evaluating reactor technologies and supporting safety and efficiency considerations during project development. During an open discussion, participants asked questions about the application of these tools and received explanations from the IAEA specialists. The seminar will continue with practical sessions at the Tashkent branch of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (NRNU MEPhI).
These sessions will focus on the use of modeling tools and simulators in the context of SMR technology development and personnel training. On the final day, participants are scheduled to discuss the alignment of Uzatom's educational programs with IAEA activities.
The agenda also includes consideration of opportunities to establish an IAEA Collaboration Center on small modular reactors in Uzbekistan. The proposed center will be among the subjects discussed as part of potential future cooperation between Uzatom and the IAEA.