University of Cumbria to host prestigious World Food Prize Foundation UK Youth Institute

This exciting and unique extra-curricular challenge will bring together young people aged 15-18 from across the UK who are passionate about sustainability and creating positive change. As part of the internationally recognised World Food Prize Foundation Youth Institute, participants will investigate global food security and agricultural development challenges by researching a food security issue affecting a country other than their own. Students will develop innovative, research-based solutions, produce a Global Challenge paper, and present their findings in an academic showcase to peers, subject-matter experts and fellow young changemakers. Alongside building key skills in research, critical thinking and communication, the top two students will be awarded a fully funded trip to attend the World Food Prize conference in the United States in October 2026.

By bringing the Global Challenge to the UK, the University of Cumbria aims to inspire and empower the next generation of sustainability leaders and changemakers. Participants will be recognised as Borlaug Scholars, a prestigious distinction that can open doors to further opportunities, including eligibility for programmes such as the Borlaug-Ruan International Internship and potential selection as student delegates to the Global Youth Institute.

Professor Robert A. Montgomery, Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange and the Centre for National Parks and Protected Areas, said: “We are immensely proud to be the first university in the UK to host the World Food Prize Foundation Youth Institute. This is an exceptional opportunity for young people to engage with one of the most important challenges facing our world today - how we produce, protect and share food sustainably and equitably. By bringing together passionate students and expert voices at our Ambleside campus, we are inspiring the next generation and empowering young people with the knowledge, confidence and international outlook needed to tackle food security challenges - an effort that is vital not only for their futures, but for the future of our planet.”

Mashal Husain, President, World Food Prize Foundation said: “We are deeply honoured to extend our Youth Institute Programming to the United Kingdom. This institute provides a platform for young people to develop their ideas, engage with experts and become part of a global movement working to ensure a food-secure future. By investing in the next generation of leaders, we are cultivating innovation, resilience and collaboration in communities both locally and globally.”

How to participate

For more information on how to enter, to access the Global Challenge guidelines, or to register interest in this exciting opportunity, head to: United Kingdom Youth Institute - The World Food Prize - Improving the Quality, Quantity and Availability of Food in the World

Registration deadline: 31 January 2026
Paper submission deadline: 15 March 2026