Young researchers and master’s students in Asia have a chance to shape the future of food security. The FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026 invites fresh ideas to tackle big issues like climate change and hunger. Launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the ASEAN University Network for Agriculture and Food Security (AUN-AFS), this contest focuses on sustainable farming and food systems in the Asia-Pacific region.
What the Competition Offers
This program started with a webinar on April 23, 2026. It connects school research with real-world policies. Participants create proposals that solve problems in agriculture and food security. The goal is to build stronger systems that last against challenges like weather changes and unequal access to food.
Winning ideas get funding to grow into full projects. This help lets students turn concepts into tools that leaders can use. The contest also builds skills for careers in research and policy.
Key Benefits for Participants
Entering the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026 brings real rewards. First, selected projects receive money to improve quality and reach. This covers costs for data collection, tools, or travel.
Students also join the FAO eLearning Academy. This online platform has free courses on farming, nutrition, and green practices. Lessons cover research skills and UN goals. Users learn to match their work with regional needs, like better crop yields or safer food supplies.
Top entries lead to the 10th International Agriculture Congress in 2026. Hosted by Universiti Putra Malaysia, it includes an Academia Roundtable. Here, finalists talk with experts, share ideas, and network. This builds confidence and opens doors to jobs or partnerships.
Why This Matters for Agrifood Systems
Food systems face tough problems worldwide. Climate shifts harm crops, while poverty limits access to healthy meals. Young people bring new views to fix these.
The competition pushes for youth input in changes. It matches FAO’s plans for the region, like cutting waste and boosting resilience. Organizers want to link schools with global groups. Prof. Dr. Loh Teck Chwen from Universiti Putra Malaysia says it supports innovation and leadership. Ms. Kaori Abe from FAO notes that teaming up turns student talent into real fixes for people and the planet.
Who Is Eligible
Not everyone can join, but many qualify. Open to master’s students and young researchers from certain places. Universities must be in ASEAN countries, China, Japan, or South Korea.
Check the full list of approved schools on the application page. This keeps the focus on the Asia-Pacific area.
Application Steps
Start by reviewing the rules and eligible schools. Prepare a strong proposal on sustainable agrifood topics. Submit through the online form.
Visit the application link: Apply here.
For details, see the FAO page: Learn More.
Important Deadline
All entries must arrive by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Plan ahead to avoid missing out. Early submissions give time to fix any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can enter the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026?
Master’s students and young researchers from universities in ASEAN countries, China, Japan, or South Korea can apply. Check the full list of approved schools on the application page.
What benefits do winners get?
Winning projects receive funding for development, access to the FAO eLearning Academy, and a chance to present at the 10th International Agriculture Congress.
What is the deadline for submissions?
All entries must be submitted by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Submit early to allow time for any fixes.
How do I apply for the competition?
Review the rules and eligible schools, prepare a proposal on sustainable agrifood topics, and submit via the online form at the application link.
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