UR Students crowned Africa’s top winners in nuclear energy competition in Russia

Two University of Rwanda students have earned continental recognition after emerging as the top winners of the 2026 Atoms Empowering Africa Video Contest, an achievement that took them to Russia and showcased Rwanda’s growing voice in nuclear science and innovation.

Ange Fanny Uwera and Akaliza Keziah Laissa, both Bachelor of Applied Physics students, secured first place among finalists from across the continent in the competition organised by Russian energy company Rosatom in partnership with the BRICS Nuclear Platform. The contest encourages young Africans to explore the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology through innovative short videos.

Ange Fanny Uwera (top right) and Akaliza Keziah Laissa, both Bachelor of Applied Physics students at the College of Science and Technology, emerged as Africa’s top winners in the 2026 Atoms Empowering Africa Video Contest, earning international recognition and a trip to Russia

Inspired by Rwanda’s aspirations to develop nuclear energy, the pair created a video illustrating how the country could benefit from the peaceful use of nuclear technology. Their project also underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing nuclear science and supporting sustainable development.

"We wanted to show what Rwanda could look like if nuclear energy was fully developed," said Uwera.

Producing the winning video required dedication and creativity. The students developed the concept, wrote the script, filmed in different locations and edited the final production themselves to create a compelling story that captured the judges’ attention.

The competition attracted participants from across Africa, with only 12 finalists advancing to the final stage. Uwera and Akaliza emerged as the highest-ranked participants, an achievement that exceeded their expectations.

“At the beginning, we never imagined we could actually win or become the top participants in Africa. Being invited to travel to Russia made the experience even more memorable,” Uwera said.

The recognition provided the students with an opportunity to engage with fellow young innovators and deepen their understanding of nuclear science on an international platform. Their success also highlights the growing opportunities available to University of Rwanda students to participate in global competitions and showcase their talents beyond the classroom.

Uwera, who serves as President of the Nuclear is Clean Energy (NiCE) Club Rwanda, and Akaliza, the club’s Outreach Leader, encouraged fellow students to seize opportunities that complement their academic studies.

"Don’t stay in your comfort zone, go out, explore and make the most of every opportunity you get ; the more you engage in different activities, the more rewarding your university experience becomes," advised Akaliza.