Ghana Minister urges GAEC to retain specialist nuclear scientists

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has called for urgent action to reduce staff attrition at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). During a visit to the commission in Accra, the minister emphasized that retaining specialist nuclear scientists is essential for the country’s planned expansion of nuclear technology and power generation.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings noted that the specialized nature of these scientific disciplines requires approximately 15 years of training to reach full productivity. She urged GAEC management and staff to collaborate on identifying the causes of high turnover and implementing measures to retain skilled personnel.

Additionally, the minister addressed concerns regarding the encroachment on GAEC land. She ordered an audit of properties belonging to agencies under her ministry to safeguard assets required for future expansion. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings also highlighted the need for increased public education regarding nuclear medicine, radiation monitoring, and the risks associated with living near designated buffer zones.