The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the ASEAN University Network for Agriculture and Food Security (AUN-AFS) have launched the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026. This program invites master’s students and young researchers to submit ideas that tackle food security and farming challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. It offers a chance to turn fresh research into real-world solutions for sustainable food systems.
What Is the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026?
Announced at a webinar on April 23, 2026, this competition focuses on youth-led innovation. It targets problems like climate change, food shortages, environmental harm, and social inequalities in farming and food production. Participants develop proposals that support strong, lasting agrifood systems.
The event connects university work with policy needs. It promotes science-based fixes and builds ties between schools, experts, and global groups. By involving young people, it invests in future leaders who can improve food security across Asia and the Pacific.
Why This Competition Matters
Farming and food systems face big threats today. Young voices bring new energy to solve them. The FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026 helps in several ways:
- It boosts youth roles in changing agrifood systems.
- It funds research that matches FAO’s goals for the region.
- It aids decisions based on solid evidence.
- It links universities with international partners.
- It advances food security and green practices.
- It trains young leaders in research and policy.
Prof. Dr. Loh Teck Chwen, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Universiti Putra Malaysia, said this partnership creates chances for youth engagement, new ideas, food security, and system changes. He stressed the need to support the next wave of researchers for a better future.
Ms. Kaori Abe, Head of Partnerships at FAO, noted that students and academics together can handle regional issues. She praised the talent and drive of young people in the area, saying teamwork turns ideas into results for people and the planet.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity targets specific groups:
- Master’s students.
- Young researchers.
You must attend an eligible university in these places:
- ASEAN member countries.
- China.
- Japan.
- South Korea.
Check the full list of approved schools before applying. This ensures your school qualifies.
Key Benefits for Participants
Winning proposals get strong backing to grow their work. Support covers money, training, and events. It helps create useful, wide-reaching solutions for regional farming.
Financial Support
Selected projects receive funds to boost quality and reach. This aid lets researchers focus on practical results that influence policy and sustainability.
Access to FAO eLearning Academy
All entrants can use FAO’s online learning platform. It offers UN-approved courses on farming, nutrition, food security, green practices, and rural growth. These help in:
- Building technical skills.
- Sharpening research methods.
- Creating strong, fact-based answers.
- Learning FAO’s regional focuses.
- Refining ideas for proposals.
- Growing career abilities.
The courses provide research materials to shape better entries.
Spot at the 10th International Agriculture Congress (IAC 2026)
Finalists join an Academia Roundtable at IAC 2026, hosted by Universiti Putra Malaysia. FAO, UPM, and AUN-AFS run it. Benefits include:
- Joining talks on regional food systems.
- Meeting experts and leaders.
- Sharing ideas.
- Practicing leadership and speaking.
- Gaining global exposure.
This setup sparks teamwork and fresh thinking among youth.
How to Apply
Start by reviewing details on the official FAO page. Prepare a clear research proposal that fits the themes. Submit through the online form provided by the organizers.
Make sure your idea addresses agrifood challenges with innovation and evidence. Early prep helps avoid last-minute issues.
Application Deadline
Submit by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Late entries might not count. Plan ahead to meet the cutoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026?
It is a program launched by the FAO and AUN-AFS that invites master’s students and young researchers to submit ideas solving food security and farming challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
Who can apply for this competition?
Master’s students and young researchers from eligible universities in ASEAN countries, China, Japan, and South Korea can apply.
What benefits do participants receive?
All entrants get access to FAO eLearning courses, while winners receive funding, training, and a spot at the 10th International Agriculture Congress in 2026.
What is the application deadline?
You must submit your proposal by Sunday, May 31, 2026, to be considered.
Conversation
0 Comments