The FAO eLearning Academy Global Youth Contest 2026: From Learning to Impact is a prestigious global opportunity for young learners and professionals to showcase how education can create real-world change.
Organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through its eLearning Academy, this contest invites participants to share how FAO’s online courses have influenced their studies, careers, and community impact. The top winners will receive a fully funded trip to Rome, Italy, to attend the World Food Forum 2026.
If you are passionate about agriculture, sustainability, or global development, this is a powerful platform to gain international recognition.
Overview of FAO Global Youth Contest 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organizer | FAO eLearning Academy |
| Program Type | Global Youth Contest |
| Reward | Fully Funded Trip to Rome |
| Event | World Food Forum 2026 |
| Deadline | July 31, 2026 |
| Eligible Countries | All countries (including Nigeria) |
| Age Requirement | 18–35 years |
About the FAO eLearning Academy
The FAO eLearning Academy is an initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, designed to provide free online courses in areas such as:
- Agriculture and food systems
- Climate change and sustainability
- Nutrition and food security
- Rural development
The academy equips learners worldwide with practical knowledge to address global challenges and improve livelihoods.
What is the Global Youth Contest: From Learning to Impact?
The FAO Global Youth Contest is a story-based competition that highlights how young people turn learning into real-world impact.
Participants are required to submit a short written story explaining:
- How FAO courses shaped their journey
- Skills and knowledge gained
- How they applied learning in real life
- The impact created in their community or career
The goal is to showcase how digital learning can drive meaningful change globally.
Benefits of the FAO Global Youth Contest 2026
Selected winners will receive:
Fully Funded Trip to Rome
- Travel expenses covered
- Accommodation provided
- Participation in a global event
Attend the World Food Forum 2026
- Event date: 12–15 October 2026
- Network with global leaders, innovators, and policymakers
Global Exposure
- Feature in FAO video interviews
- Visibility on FAO platforms and social media
Only three global winners will be selected for this prestigious opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be 18 to 35 years old
- Be a registered learner on the FAO eLearning Academy
- Have completed FAO courses
- Possess verified digital badges
- Demonstrate a clear real-world impact from learning
The contest is open to young people worldwide, including Nigerians.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A written impact story (maximum 4,000 characters)
- Proof of completed FAO courses
- Certified digital badges
- Application using the same email linked to the FAO account
Your story must clearly show how learning translated into action and measurable results.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Quality and clarity of your impact story
- Evidence of course completion
- Number of digital badges earned
- Real-world application of knowledge
- Potential for global impact
Priority may be given to applicants from underrepresented or vulnerable groups.
Deadline
Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted, so early application is strongly advised.
Step-by-step guide
Before submitting your application
- Create an account on the FAO e-learning Academy platform.
- Explore available learning areas and complete courses of interest.
- Earn certified digital badges.
- Start preparing your short impact story (maximum 4,000 characters), reflecting how learning has shaped your knowledge, skills, and professional or academic path.
How to fill in the application form
- Complete the online application form.
- Use the same email address as your FAO eLearning Academy account (required for badge verification).
- Provide a complete and accurate list of your earned badges.
- Include your impact story (maximum 4 000 characters).
- Submit your application by 31 July.
For more details, click here
After submitting your application
- The FAO e-learning Academy Evaluation Committee will review applications.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- Finalists will be selected and informed individually.
- All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application.
You can visit the official website here: https://elearning.fao.org/
FAQs
1. Is the FAO Global Youth Contest fully funded?
Yes, winners receive a fully funded trip to Rome, including travel and accommodation.
2. Can Nigerians apply?
Yes, the contest is open globally, including Nigeria.
3. Do I need prior experience?
No, but you must complete FAO courses and demonstrate impact.
4. How many winners will be selected?
Three winners will be selected globally.
5. What is the main requirement?
A strong impact story showing how FAO learning changed your life or community.
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