What does it take to build a nuclear energy nation from scratch? For Namibia, the answer begins long before the first reactor is ever considered — with people.

In this episode of NBP Hot Seat, Ibrahim Ababou speaks with Dr. Roswita Hamunyela, Associate Dean of the School of Applied Nuclear Science at the University of Namibia, about why human capital — not technology — is the real foundation of a country's nuclear future.

Namibia is one of the world's leading uranium producers, but as it evaluates nuclear energy as a cornerstone of its long-term industrial strategy, the conversation is shifting from raw resource extraction to high-technology deployment. Dr. Hamunyela unpacks what that transition requires: a multidisciplinary workforce, strong institutions, informed policymakers, and a national knowledge base that cannot be imported.

In this 13-minute conversation, Dr. Hamunyela explains:

• Where human resource development sits in Namibia's national nuclear roadmap

• Why skills must be developed years before a reactor is built

• The specialised capabilities needed beyond nuclear engineers — from reactor physics and radiation protection to nuclear law, economics, procurement and project management

• How governments, universities, industry and international partners can collaborate to build a sustainable workforce • The role of African regional cooperation and shared centres of excellence

• What success looks like for Namibia's nuclear workforce by 2030