Developing a curriculum for training on Radiological sources security for African Universities and Industries

Introduction: Education and training in nuclear security are mandatory for capacity building and human resource development. These are key elements for workplaces using nuclear and radiation sources. The presence of qualified and prepared nuclear security staff can minimize risks of theft, intrusion, vandalism, or even the presence of nuclear or radiological sources in unlawful hands. This training workshop aims to raise awareness of nuclear security and expand the culture of nuclear security among all multidisciplinary professionals who have dealt with nuclear or radiological sources during their life cycle or after they become radiological waste. Target audience: This training workshop will target all African universities and industries professionals dealing with nuclear or radiological sources used in engineering, medical, and industrial applications or transport of radiological sources or wastes, such as engineers (all specialties), physicians, nurses, technicians, transporters, safety personnel, therapists, or those who work in waste management, policymaking, regulatory and observatory bodies. Methods: Announcements and recruiting participants: A poster indicating the title of the training workshop, the topics of the training, the venue, and the dates will be prepared and printed on large banners and distributed to healthcare facilities and industries dealing with radiological sources. Announcements will be made using social media and Yahoo professional email groups, e.g., the Nuclear Security Educators email group, and others. Development of the training: This workshop will be developed in the future to include participants from Arab countries and Middle Eastern and African countries who work with nuclear or radiological materials. Challenges: 1. Training the trainers is needed 2. Develop the local library and access to the internet 3. Develop course/workshop training materials 4. Develop educational problems 5. Funding for materials development, detection equipment labs, and incentives for teachers and administrators 6. International universities' partnership and collaboration are mandatory for sustainability