Geneva, Switzerland - 26 March: The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) and Nestlé have entered a strategic partnership to establish the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems. Envisioned as a multi-partner ecosystem, the Academy will strengthen education, career development and knowledge exchange for university students, early‑career researchers, and young professionals working in food and nutrition research and production, particularly those from priority regions in the Global South.Prof. Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH stated: “The World Food Academy represents a platform to translate interdisciplinary research into actionable solutions by —equipping emerging leaders, particularly in the Global South, with the scientific, technical, and policy competencies required to address systemic challenges in food security, nutrition, and sustainability. This collaboration with Nestlé further strengthens our ability to bridge science and policy, ensuring that knowledge is effectively translated into practice while advancing sustainable and resilient food systems for future generations.”
The World Food Academy will incorporate Nestlé’s existing Science & Technology Seminars, a key initiative under Nestlé needs YOUth. First launched in 2023, the free, expert-led seminars cover topics such as agricultural science, food science and technology, as well as nutritional science. They also offer technical expertise related to affordable and sustainable food production. Initially offered through partner universities, the Nestlé seminars reached around 7,000 students across over 300 academic institutions in more than 90 countries last year.
UNU-INWEH will contribute its expertise in research, capacity building, policy engagement, and knowledge dissemination to support the seminars. This will help to ensure that participants receive up-to-date knowledge, practical insights, and tools to support their professional development. It will also share its knowledge in the areas sustainable agriculture and responsible land management which are vital for food security, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The initiative complements UNU‑INWEH’s broader efforts in online education through the Online Learning Centre, the Media Academy, and the UN Water Conference Academic Hub, further strengthening capacities built over the institute’s 30 years. All activities will align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular on advancing quality education and reducing inequalities.
Educational resources developed through this partnership will remain publicly accessible at no cost, ensuring free access for learners worldwide, particularly those in low-income regions.
Professor Stefan Palzer, Chief Technology Officer at Nestlé, said: “Ensuring global food security and driving the transition to sustainable food systems requires intense collaboration along the food value chain. Through this joint initiative with the United Nations University, we will share our broad and deep scientific expertise, along with our practical knowledge of food and nutrition, with underprivileged students and young professionals around the world. This know‑how will enable them to more effectively transform both global and local food systems, making food more nutritious, accessible and sustainable.”
Both partners will explore opportunities to expand the Academy’s scope over time. This includes by building a global network of educational institutions, industry partners, and research organizations, while offering career development opportunities, specialized capacity development programs, sabbaticals, internships, and fellowships.
Later this year, UNU-INWEH and Nestlé will jointly host a symposium on Sustainable Food Systems. The event will bring together policymakers, researchers, private sector representatives, and civil society to explore practical solutions for improving access to nutritious, affordable food while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Visit the website: www.worldfoodacademy.org
Media contact: Elliot Mur, Policy and Partnership Relations Associate, elliot.mur@unu.edu
