FAO, National Food Agency, and KSP Initiate A Collaborative Venture to Empower Youth for Food Systems Transformation
Jakarta, Indonesia - The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Indonesia, the National Food Agency (Bapangnas), and the Executive Office of the President (KSP) are elated to announce the beginning of a landmark initiative, "Empowering Youth through Capacity Development on Innovative Farming System Programme for Agrifood System Transformation in Indonesia." This event not only launches the program but also cements essential partnerships with key stakeholders, including Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture. This collaboration underscores a shared dedication to innovatively transform the agricultural sector by empowering Indonesia's youth.
"Large collaborations must be undertaken for the regeneration of farmers, as the threat of a food crisis is already imminent. I invite other parties who share the same concern to collaborate together," Presidential Chief of Staff, Dr. H. Moeldoko emphasised.
“Ensuring food safety is a top priority for Indonesia, as it directly impacts the well-being of our more than 270 million citizens. A critical challenge in maintaining food security is the regeneration of our farmers, who form the backbone of our nation's food supply.” stated Arief Prasetyo Adi, Head of National Food Agency (Bapangnas).
“Our focus is to empower young individuals with the skills and knowledge to become successful agri-entrepreneurs. We will put our efforts to ignite the interest of the youth in agriculture and inspire them to take a lead in agrifood system transformation and drive positive change in Indonesia's agricultural landscape", said Rajendra Aryal, FAO Representative in Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
This project aims to address the structural changes within Indonesia's agricultural sector. It is a response to the demographic shift towards an aging farmer population, the increased reliance on women in agriculture, and the declining interest of youth in agriculture-related careers. This evolving scenario could pose risks to future food security, underscoring the need to actively engage youth in addressing the challenges of climate change, disaster resilience, and environmental degradation.
The two-year project marks a crucial effort to bridge the generational gap in agriculture sector and spark youth interest in agriculture-related careers and initiatives. It includes the development of a comprehensive agriculture education curriculum and aims to implement pilot programs in West Java and Lampung, mainly focusing on the transition from conventional to permaculture practices.
The initiative will collaborate closely with relevant government line agencies, educational institutions, and local communities, and the program is designed to create a synergy addressing the needs of the youth and the agriculture sector.