World Food Prize Foundation Launches Georgia Youth Institute at the University of Georgia

The World Food Prize Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Georgia Youth Institute, June 15 - 16 at the University of Georgia. This convening will bring together high school students from across the state who are passionate about agriculture, food systems, sustainability and community development.

In 2025, more than 1,600 students around the world attended a World Food Prize Foundation Youth Institute. To participate, students must write a three to five page Global Challenge research paper on a country and a food security related topic. They get to present their research and propose innovative solutions to peers and experts during the Youth Institute. The Georgia Youth Institute will take place in 2026 as part of the Foundation's Youth Institute network, reaching 23 states and eight countries.

"Combining energy, innovation and purpose, the Georgia Youth Institute is designed to spark a movement among young people who care deeply about how food is grown, distributed and consumed," said Mashal Husain, President, World Food Prize Foundation. "We're not just talking about change-we're empowering young leaders to build a food-secure, nourished and sustainable future across Georgia and beyond."

The Georgia Youth Institute aims to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders to take on the pressing challenges of food security, environmental resilience and equitable access to nutritious food at home and abroad.

"The University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is proud to host the World Food Prize Foundation's Georgia Youth Institute," said Nick Pace, Dean and Director, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. "This experience is a launchpad for the next generation of thinkers, advocates and changemakers in our state's largest industry: agriculture. By inviting young people to engage directly with real-world challenges around agriculture, nutrition and other big topics they're already facing, the Institute encourages students to think big and apply what they learn to real challenges facing our industry today."

Hosted by leading universities and research organizations, Youth Institutes immerse high school students in rigorous, hands-on discussions about global food security. Participants engage with local leaders and experts, take part in interactive scientific activities, explore a wide range of career pathways and gain the skills and inspiration needed to make a meaningful impact on agriculture, food systems and sustainable development.

"UGA CAES is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders in agriculture and food security," said Jaky Cervantes Childers, Director of Student Recruitment, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. "This event will provide incredible opportunities for students to engage with critical global challenges, showcase innovative solutions and connect with peers and mentors who share their passion for a sustainable future."

For information on registration for the 2026 Georgia Youth Institute, students and educators can visit HERE.