From WFO Gymnasium to LL.M in Food Law Scholarship: Josiane Irakarama’ s Open Letter to New WFO Gymnasium Students

Dear Young Farmers,

As we celebrate World Youth Skills Day today, I am excited to share my journey with the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO) and to welcome you to the fourth edition of the WFO Gymnasium Capacity Building Program starting this July 17. My name is Josiane Irakarama. I am from Rwanda, and like you, I embarked on this incredible journey with hopes and dreams.

Participating in the second edition of the WFO Gymnasium from 2020 to 2022 was a transformative experience for me. This program, launched in 2017 to train young farmers to fulfil their potential as future leaders and advocates of modern agriculture, empowered me with crucial skills and advocacy abilities. During the two-year duration, I had the opportunity to learn from international leaders working in various policy areas at the global level, as well as from my fellow Gymnasium students. I participated in global events related to agriculture and actively engaged in discussions and activities. In addition to this, I received expert coaching in leadership and advocacy. This experience set the stage for my future pursuits and sparked a passion for continuous learning and growth.

Building on this foundation, in May 2024, I pursued a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Food Law at LUISS University in Rome, which I had the privilege of attending starting in January 2023, thanks to a generous scholarship from WFO. This scholarship, awarded annually to a deserving graduated young farmer or a participant of the WFO Gymnasium, has opened doors to numerous professional opportunities and global engagements, enriching my understanding and capabilities in the agricultural sector. This comprehensive program offered a rich and immersive learning experience covering critical topics like food laws, safety regulations, environmental protection, quality control, consumer rights, and agro-food policies. The curriculum emphasised technological innovation and bio-agriculture technologies, and I learned from distinguished scholars, regulatory officials, and industry leaders.

During my time at the LUISS LL.M. in Food Law, I had the unique opportunity of undertaking a professional internship with the WFO International Secretariat in Rome. This hands-on experience, blending academic insights with real-world practice, greatly expanded my horizons and sharpened my professional skills. Throughout this period, I was privileged to participate in various global events at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters in Rome, including the 5th AU-EU Agriculture Ministerial Conference in June 2023, the UN Food Systems (UNFSS) +2 Stocktaking Moment in July 2023, the Global Youth Dialogue on Sustainable Livestock Transformation in September 2023, the 2023 World Food Forum (WFF) Flagship Event and the 51st Plenary Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS 51) in October 2023. Engaging in these events gave me valuable insights into global political processes related to agriculture and significantly contributed to my leadership development to benefit my home farmer organisation in Rwanda, INGABO Syndicate.

The skills and knowledge I gained through the WFO Gymnasium, the LL.M. in Food Law program, and my internship with the WFO International Secretariat have been pivotal in shaping my career. The exposure to global dialogues and the chance to influence agricultural policies have significantly enhanced my understanding of the sector’s complexities and challenges. This priceless experience has highlighted the critical need for collaboration, investment, and innovative policies to transform global agri-food systems.

As you embark on this journey, know that you are part of a vibrant community committed to making a difference. The skills and insights you will gain through the WFO Gymnasium will empower you to make meaningful contributions to the global agricultural community. Embrace this opportunity with an open mind and a passionate heart. The future of agriculture depends on our generation, and I am confident that you will rise to the challenge and make a lasting impact.

Thank you, WFO, for believing in and investing in the youngest generations and providing us with the skills and opportunities we need to shape the future of agriculture.

With best wishes for your journey ahead,

Josiane Irakarama