In 2016 YPARD is celebrating ten years since its official launch at the GFAR Triennial meeting in New Delhi, November 2006. It was born from the challenges facing young professionals in agricultural development and the need for a support structure.

This year is the occasion to celebrate YPARD’s 10 year achievements and reaffirm its focus on supporting youth in today’s fast-paced, changing environment.  A series of YPARD online and onsite events (campaigns, meetings, series of testimonials etc) will take place throughout the year, within YPARD's community and with partners.

The GFAR Secretariat is pleased to support the YPARD Global Coordination Unit, securing hosting arrangements for their office at FAO Headquarters, and providing administrative support and financial backing for collaborative projects since 2009. GFAR and its Partners recognize that without more active youth participation in agricultural research for development, the sector risks stagnation and losing touch with the needs of rural communities. In its tenth year, YPARD is encouraging young people into careers in research and innovation more than ever before and giving them a voice in the changes needed in agricultural education and innovation systems. YPARD now boasts regional units in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America-Caribbean, with over 60 country representatives and over 11,600 registered members from 187 countries.  

Click here to learn more about how YPARD has supported young professionals in agriculture and what they are planning for this year of celebrations.