In the race to make progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, science and innovation have emerged as key tools to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems. 

Science and innovation have always been a part of FAO’s work, but the Organization has been stepping up its efforts given the urgency of the complex challenges the world faces. 

This is why the first-ever FAO Science and Innovation Strategy was launched in 2022: to provide Organization-wide guidance, coherence and alignment on FAO’s technical interventions and normative guidance related to science and innovation.  

To support our colleagues and partners in being aware of the Strategy and understanding how it is relevant to their work, FAO has just launched an e-learning course. 

• Would you like to learn more about the Strategy using an interactive modality that looks at real-life examples?  
• Do you want to explore key concepts, such as technologies and their social and economic dimensions?  
• Have you ever wondered what transdisciplinary research is?  
• Have you ever wondered if diverse knowledge systems have a role in FAO’s work? 

Then this course is for you!  

The course aims to support FAO staff, Members and partners to harness science and innovation for resilient and sustainable agrifood systems. It presents the main features of the FAO Science and Innovation Strategy, delves into key concepts in science and innovation, and looks at their application in the field: 

Lesson 1 presents an overview of the FAO Science and Innovation Strategy and its Action Plan. It explores why the Strategy is essential and describes its vision, goal and scope, as well as FAO's role in science and innovation. In addition, the lesson presents the Strategy’s pillars, outcomes, enablers and guiding principles. After completing this lesson, participants will be equipped to comprehend and contribute to FAO's endeavours in advancing global scientific progress and innovation. 

Lesson 2 explores fundamental concepts in science, innovation, and technology, advocating for the integration of diverse knowledge systems.  It emphasizes the multidimensional nature of innovation, spanning social, policy, financial, and institutional contexts, and recognizes the contributions of Indigenous Peoples and small-scale producers.  

Lesson 3 explores local adaptations of the FAO Science and Innovation Strategy through two case studies:  

Ayllu AgTech addresses AgriFood Tech adoption challenges among small-scale producers in Latin America and the Caribbean. It emphasizes inclusive innovation, youth empowerment, and community collaboration with Design Thinking. 

ACREI is a collaborative initiative for climate adaptation in Eastern African farming communities. It uses participatory methods to turn climate data into actionable farming advisories and fosters community engagement. 

Click here to enrol in the course including the three lessons and get your certificate in only 2 hours!

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