UB Radiation and Health Physics Students Explore Nuclear Science in South Africa
A group of University of Botswana (UB) Radiation and Health Physics students recently embarked on an educational field trip to South Africa from the 17th to 19th March 2025, to gain hands-on experience in nuclear science applications.
The students visited two of the region’s most renowned nuclear research institutions - the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) and the iThemba Laboratories for Accelerator-Based Sciences (iThemba Labs). The trip provided them with valuable exposure to real-world nuclear technology and research.
On the 18th of March 2025, the students toured NECSA, home to the SAFARI-1 research reactor. Scientists at the facility introduced them to nuclear reactor operations, radioisotope production processes and nuclear waste management techniques.
The following day, the group visited iThemba Labs which houses the largest particle accelerator in the Southern Hemisphere and Africa’s only cyclotron facility. During the visit, students were guided through the operations of the 6MV Tandem accelerator and given an indepth tour of the carbon dating and environmental radioanalysis laboratories.
Beyond technical insights, both institutions provided presentations on career opportunities in nuclear science, inspiring students to consider future prospects in the field. By the end of the trip, the students expressed enthusiasm and motivation to pursue careers in nuclear research and technology.