ICNDT and IAEA sign Practical Arrangements to strengthen global NDT cooperation

09/05/2025

The International Committee for Non-Destructive Testing (ICNDT) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have officially signed a set of Practical Arrangements, marking a new chapter in their collaborative efforts to advance the science and application of non-destructive testing (NDT) worldwide.

The signing ceremony took place during the International Conference on Applications of Radiation Science and Technology (ICARST-2025), attended by senior representatives from both organisations and numerous international guests.

The Practical Arrangements were signed by Dr Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General (DDG)and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, on behalf of the IAEA and Dr Sajeesh Kumar Babu, Chair of ICNDT, on behalf of the International Committee for Non-Destructive Testing.

Dr Mokhtar expressed strong support for the collaboration and stated she is looking forward to the joint activities ahead. She extended her appreciation to ICNDT for leading this cooperative initiative, emphasising its importance in enhancing safety through the use of NDT techniques such as industrial radiography and in applying various NDT methods for improving the safety of facilities and infrastructures globally.

 

  
  Dr Najat Mokhtar, IAEA DDG and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications (left), and Dr Sajeesh Kumar Babu, ICNDT Chair, exchange the Practical Arrangements 

 

Speaking on behalf of ICNDT, Dr Babu remarked: “This agreement represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to promote the safe, effective and innovative use of NDT technologies globally. The partnership provides a framework for capacity building, training, radiation safety and knowledge exchange, crucial pillars for ensuring quality, safety and resilience across sectors.”

Dr Babu further thanked Ms Hannah A Affum (IAEA) and Mr David Gilbert (ICNDT) for their dedicated efforts in bringing this agreement to fruition, acknowledging their technical insight and commitment over the past two years.

ICNDT also warmly welcomed the IAEA as a Liaison Member, underscoring the value of its participation in ICNDT assemblies, working groups and specialist international activities.

The Practical Arrangements signify a united commitment to furthering NDT as a vital tool for sustainable development, public safety and the long-term safety of civil and industrial infrastructure.

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