The World Food Forum (WFF)'s Global Youth Action Initiative (Youth Initiative) is launching its 2025 Needs Assessment Survey, to shape future opportunities for youth in agrifood systems. The survey will gather insights on young people's critical skills, challenges, interests and priorities within agrifood systems, leading to focus group discussions across different countries. The ultimate goal of the needs assessment is to address gaps in agrifood systems education and skills development, ensuring that young people are equipped to drive meaningful change.

The WFF Youth Initiative is implemented through a set of thematic programmes: Youth Assembly, Youth Innovation Lab, Youth Education, Youth Culture and Local Action. This Needs Assessment aims to enhance the implementation of these programmes by achieving the following outcomes: Development of tailored capacity development projects and activities; Identification of the most in-demand skills for capacity development; Understanding of youth insights into current employment opportunities and interests within agrifood systems; and Publication of a report on the skills required for young people to succeed in agrifood systems.

The survey results will guide the WFF Youth Initiative's strategy for engaging with WFF National Youth Chapters, NGOs and other stakeholders, ensuring youth perspectives are included. After the survey, selected participants will join focus group discussions, contributing to a report that gathers insights from over 20 countries. This will identify the skills needed for young people to succeed in agrifood systems and inform the development of targeted educational programs and capacity-building activities.