Young master’s students and researchers in Asia have a chance to make a real difference in food security and sustainable farming. The FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026 invites them to submit ideas that tackle big challenges like climate change and food shortages. 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 opened applications after a webinar on April 23, 2026.
Why This Competition Matters
Agrifood systems face tough issues such as climate change, hunger, damaged environments, and unequal access to resources. Young people can help fix these problems with fresh ideas. The FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026 wants to boost youth involvement in changing agriculture and food systems.
The organizers aim to spark new research that matches FAO’s goals for the Asia-Pacific region. They also seek to support decisions based on solid evidence, build teamwork between schools and global groups, and improve food security. This event helps train future leaders in research and policy.
Prof. Dr. Loh Teck Chwen from Universiti Putra Malaysia says the partnership creates chances for youth to engage, innovate, and transform agrifood systems. Ms. Kaori Abe from FAO adds that young talent in the region can turn into real solutions for people and the planet through teamwork.
Support for Winning Projects
Top proposals get money to improve their work and make a bigger impact. This funding helps turn ideas into practical fixes for sustainable farming in the region. Winners also receive academic help and training resources.
FAO eLearning Academy Access
All participants can use the FAO eLearning Academy, a free online platform with UN-approved courses. Topics cover farming, nutrition, food security, green practices, and rural growth. These courses build skills in research methods, FAO priorities, and creating strong solutions.
Users can sharpen their ideas, learn better ways to study problems, and grow their careers. The materials come from real research, making them useful for strong proposals.
Chance to Join the 10th International Agriculture Congress
Finalists can attend an Academia Roundtable at the 10th International Agriculture Congress (IAC 2026) in Malaysia, hosted by Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). This event lets them talk with experts, share ideas, network, and practice leadership. It builds a space for youth to lead discussions on agrifood systems.
Who Can Apply
Master’s students and young researchers from certain places qualify. They must attend eligible universities in ASEAN countries, China, Japan, or South Korea. Check the full list of schools on the official site before applying.
Deadline and Application Steps
Submit by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Late entries might not count, so start early.
For details, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the FAO & AUN-AFS Research Proposal Competition for Youth 2026?
Master’s students and young researchers from eligible universities in ASEAN countries, China, Japan, or South Korea can apply. Check the full list of schools on the official site.
What is the deadline for submitting proposals?
You must submit your application by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Start early to avoid missing out.
What do winners of the competition receive?
Winners get funding to develop their projects, academic support, training resources, and a chance to attend the 10th International Agriculture Congress in Malaysia.
What resources are available to all participants?
All participants have free access to the FAO eLearning Academy, which offers online courses on farming, food security, sustainable practices, and research methods.
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