Josiah
Rwanda will host the African edition of the prestigious Global HackAtom competition on May 29–30, bringing together university students to compete for a chance to represent the continent in the international finals in Russia.
The University of Rwanda will serve as the venue for the national round, marking Africa’s first participation in the global nuclear-themed innovation challenge. Students from across the country will gather in Kigali to solve real-world problems related to nuclear science and technology.
Supported by Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom, the two-day event is part of a series held in nine countries to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Russia’s nuclear industry. The Rwandan leg of the competition will feature expert-led lectures, collaborative challenges, and the selection of a five-member team to compete at the finals in Russia this September.
On the first day, participants will attend lectures delivered by academics from Russia’s National Research Nuclear University (MEPhI) and the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN). The second day will see student teams present innovative solutions to technical challenges focused on nuclear applications.
“HackAtom offers students a unique opportunity to engage with real-world issues in nuclear science and technology,” said Ryan Collyer, CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa. “Through this initiative, we hope participants not only gain technical skills but also a global perspective on solving complex challenges.”
Other countries participating in this year’s Global HackAtom include Bolivia, Brazil, Hungary, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, Serbia, and Uzbekistan. Winning teams from each nation will travel to Russia for the final round, part of the World Atomic Week youth programme. Finalists will engage in workshops, cultural exchanges, and professional networking, with a focus on the future role of nuclear technology—including its potential in space exploration.
Launched in 2021, HackAtom has already involved more than 850 students worldwide. The initiative is designed to foster international collaboration in nuclear education, encourage youth participation in STEM fields, and support the development of sustainable energy solutions. Rosatom continues to partner with academic institutions globally to expand access to nuclear knowledge and career development.
