The meeting focused on the Global Climate Smart Youth Network’s progress and future initiatives, highlighting its growth from 14 to 178 countries and plans to transition from Centers of Excellence to CSAYN schools by 2026. Key discussions centered around addressing the global food crisis, promoting youth involvement in agriculture and climate change, and establishing partnerships to drive change through research, science, and technology. The conversation ended with announcements about upcoming events and initiatives, including a new community of practice with the UN in Addis Ababa.
CSAYN’s Global Agricultural Transformation
The meeting marked a significant step in the journey to empower young people and transform agriculture into a sustainable, climate-resilient, and inclusive sector. Yuckmila highlighted the growth of the CSAYN network from 14 to 178 countries since its inception in 2017, with Divine emphasizing the importance of research and science in driving change. The launch of the CSAYN annual forum and the transition from Centers of Excellence to CSAYN schools by 2026 were discussed, with Divine and Ambassador Hans expressing their commitment to transforming lives and fostering collaboration across various sectors.
Youth Action for Food Security
Delivering his address Ambassador Hans Hoogeveen from The Netherlands, emphasized the urgent need for action to address the global food crisis, highlighting that the current generation cannot solve these problems and calling for youth involvement. He discussed the importance of breaking down silos between agriculture and climate change, launching the Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture in 2014, and the need for concrete youth initiatives to drive change. Hans encouraged the youth to demand their place at the table, seek funding and partnerships for startups, and work towards achieving food security, climate-smart agriculture, and a better future for all.
CSAYN Annual Forum Launch Update
Ambassador Hans was thanked by Mr. Divine Ntiokam for his support in chairing the CSYN board and encouraging youth involvement in forums like FAO’s youth initiative. Zablon, representing WMO, discussed their role in climate resilience and agriculture, emphasizing data provision and collaboration with communities. Paul, president of the British Society of Soil Science, highlighted their memorandum of understanding with CSAYN and their upcoming conference in December, where the CSAYN Annual Forum will be launched.
CSAYN Research and Partnerships Update:
The meeting focused on the Global Climate Smart Youth Network (CSAYN) Research and Scientific Committee’s progress and future plans. Professor Elechi outlined the committee’s objectives, including increasing research utilization rates and establishing industry-academia partnerships. Dr. Sarada emphasized the importance of youth empowerment through scientific technology. Larisa highlighted the role of partnerships and mentorship in addressing global climate challenges. The meeting also featured success stories from Alina Fey and Madu, who discussed their environmental initiatives and mentorship experiences. David introduced a new technology for improving food security, and Dr. Francis shared updates on CSAYN’s activities in Africa. The conversation ended with an announcement of an upcoming annual forum and a new community of practice initiative with the UN in Addis Ababa.