Education in action: Youth leading agrifood systems transformation
During the 2025 World Food Forum (WFF) flagship event, the WFF's Youth Education Programme highlighted youth education as a pivotal instrument in sustainably transforming agrifood systems.
The Agrifood Leadership Education Programme (ALEP) showcased its inaugural cohort, with nine young leaders presenting local community projects they developed throughout 2025. Their work highlighted how youth-led local action can spark transformational change through educational projects.
The event that took place on 14 October also featured two thematic panels and launched the new ALEP Water Action cohort, reaffirming the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)'s commitment to empowering young changemakers.
“Agrifood Leadership Education Programme: Leading the future of agrifood systems"
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Youth-led science was another central pillar of the week. The Young Scientists Group (YSG) hosted an online session on 14 October, spotlighting innovative research led by young scientists from around the world.
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On 15 October, the Agx Fair finals showcased six outstanding youth-led education initiatives. Finalists presented their projects to FAO Members and global stakeholders, receiving feedback and gaining visibility for their innovative and inclusive approaches.
On 16 October, YSG members joined distinguished laureates Carlos M. Duarte (Japan Prize), Coline Monchanin (L’Óreal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award) and Tinotenda Mhiko (African Food Prize), for an intergenerational dialogue on science, leadership and impact. On the same day, a joint panel with the FAO Office of Youth and Women, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and FAO's Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division highlighted the experiences of women researchers and the importance of mentorship, community and institutional support in closing the gender gap in science. The YSG concluded the week with a youth booth exhibition featuring newly published research on topics ranging from healthy diets and biodiversity to youth-led climate action.
The Global School Assembly, held on 17 October, brought together Italian high school students, including participants from the inaugural CultivatED programme, for an interactive dialogue inspired by FAO's four betters. The session featured student statements, creative performances, technical quizzes and an intergenerational exchange with FAO leadership. Later that day, more than 450 students participated in Discovery Stations across FAO headquarters, exploring hands-on exhibits on topics such as digital innovation, gender equality, forestry, nutrition and fisheries.
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Together, these events delivered a consistent message: education, science and leadership are essential foundations for youth-led action and sustainable agrifood systems transformation.
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