The WFF Academic Engagement 2026 in Italy is a funded programme that connects youth, research, and action to support global food policy and agrifood systems transformation. It bridges academic learning, research, and innovation with real-world multilateral processes, empowering young leaders to drive agrifood systems transformation.
The programme is hosted by the World Food Forum (WFF), a youth initiative within the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The WFF Global Youth Action Initiative, hosted by the FAO Office of Youth and Women, connects universities, students, and faculty with global agrifood systems dialogue.
Benefits
- Access to FAO experts and global networks
- Institutional recognition and visibility
- Opportunities for policy reflection, simulations, and innovation projects
- Student pathways into international career programs
- Participation in flagship event, internships, and volunteering opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to students, professors/faculty, and universities worldwide
- Students: Participate in consultations, simulations, group projects, and impact screenings
- Professors/Faculty: Integrate WFF activities into coursework, join the Educators Network, co-create lesson plans
- Universities: Nominate academic delegations (5–15 students) for high-impact engagement cycles
How to Apply?
- Institutions express interest via WFF Youth Initiative channels
- Select engagement model: Course-integrated (medium), Educators Network (medium), or Academic delegations (high)
- Nominate students and faculty focal points
- Participate in consultations, workshops, and flagship event
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the WFF Academic Engagement programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the WFF Academic Engagement programme?
The WFF Academic Engagement programme connects universities, students, and faculty with global agrifood systems dialogue. It bridges academic learning, research, and innovation with real-world multilateral processes, empowering young leaders to drive agrifood systems transformation.
Who can apply for the WFF Academic Engagement?
Students, professors/faculty, and universities worldwide can apply. Students participate in consultations, simulations, group projects, and impact screenings. Professors integrate WFF activities into coursework and join the Educators Network. Universities nominate academic delegations of 5–15 students.
What are the benefits of the WFF Academic Engagement?
Benefits include access to FAO experts and global networks, institutional recognition and visibility, opportunities for policy reflection, simulations, and innovation projects, student pathways into international career programs, and participation in the flagship event, internships, and volunteering opportunities.
What is the deadline for the WFF Academic Engagement 2026?
The application deadline is 24 June 2026. Interested institutions and individuals should express their interest via WFF Youth Initiative channels before this date.
How do I apply for the WFF Academic Engagement?
Institutions express interest via WFF Youth Initiative channels. Then select an engagement model: Course-integrated (medium), Educators Network (medium), or Academic delegations (high). Nominate students and faculty focal points, and participate in consultations, workshops, and the flagship event.
Where will the WFF Academic Engagement take place?
The programme includes virtual engagement cycles from July to November 2026 and an in-person flagship event in Rome, Italy from 8 to 16 October 2026. Internships run from January to March annually.
What fields are eligible for the WFF Academic Engagement?
Eligible fields include Agrifood Systems, Food Security, Climate Change, Sustainability, and Rural Development. The programme is open to students and faculty from any discipline related to these areas.
Is the WFF Academic Engagement fully funded?
No, but it provides access to FAO experts, global networks, institutional recognition, and opportunities for policy reflection, simulations, and innovation projects, including participation in the flagship event and internships.
How are participants selected for the WFF Academic Engagement?
Institutions and faculty nominate students or delegations. Engagement is tailored to capacity: course-integrated, educator network, or academic delegation. Delegations submit final reflections summarizing key learnings.
How long does the WFF Academic Engagement last?
The engagement cycle runs from July to November 2026. The flagship event takes place from 8 to 16 October 2026. Internships are available from January to March annually.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
