Elias Alemeshet is a Radiation Protection Technician at Alpha Radiation Protection Service in Ethiopia.
He believes the future of nuclear technology in Africa requires the development of human capital. His experience with WINS as a platform for international expertise sharing has led him to take on the role of WINS Academy Ambassador. In this interview we also discussed the role of WINS Academy certification in his career and how he sees this training and knowledge exchange in a regional context.
How did the WINS Academy programme enhance your understanding of the relationship between radiation protection and nuclear security?
The WINS Academy programme provided the structured, competency-based training needed to view security not just as a technical or guard force issue, but as a management and leadership responsibility that is inseparable from radiation safety.
How has certification strengthened your confidence or credibility when working with stakeholders – such as regulators, operators, or international partners?
Certification has shifted my role from a technical practitioner to a trusted advisor. It allows me to speak with a level of authority that is essential for influencing policy and fostering a robust security culture within the African nuclear landscape.
“Certification has shifted my role from a technical practitioner to a trusted advisor.”
Why would you encourage other radiation protection professionals, especially in Africa, to pursue WINS Academy certification?
I encourage my colleagues across Africa to join the WINS Academy because our continent’s nuclear future depends on human capital. By becoming certified, we demonstrate to the world that Africa is not only ready for nuclear technology but is committed to managing it with the highest level of professional integrity and security.
What value does benchmarking against international best practices bring to national radiation protection programmes?
Benchmarking is not about copying what others do; it is about learning from the collective experience of the global community to build a national programme that is robust, resilient, and ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
How can professionals in emerging nuclear contexts benefit from global knowledge-sharing platforms like WINS?
In emerging nuclear contexts – like many across Africa – the primary challenge isn’t just technology; it is the isolation of expertise. Global platforms like WINS act as a “force multiplier” for professionals.
“Global platforms like WINS act as a ‘force multiplier’ for professionals.”
How has becoming a Certified Nuclear Security Professional benefitted your organisation?
My certification has turned my organisations into bridges. For Alpha, I bridge the gap between technical safety and physical security. For Nuclear-Aware Africa, I bridge the gap between international standards and African implementation. My organisations are no longer just ‘aware’ of nuclear security; they are now certified to lead it.
What role does WINS certification play in your institution’s professional development programme?
WINS certification is the bridge between technical knowledge and strategic leadership. It is the primary tool we use to ensure our professionals don’t just understand the science of radiation, but also the stewardship and security required to protect our society.
