Nestlé and United Nations University launch global academy to strengthen sustainable food systems expertise

Nestlé and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) have partnered to establish the World Food Academy 4 Sustainable Food Systems, a global initiative to strengthen education, career development and knowledge exchange across the food sector.

The academy will support 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.

Professor 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.”

Science and technology training at the core

A core element of the initiative will be Nestlé’s Science & Technology Seminars, which will now be delivered through the academy. The seminars, part of the company’s Nestlé needs YOUth programme, launched in 2023 and cover topics including agricultural science, food science and technology and nutritional science, alongside technical expertise related to affordable and sustainable food production.

Initially offered through partner universities, the seminars reached around 7,000 students across more than 300 academic institutions in over 90 countries last year.

Through the partnership, UNU-INWEH will contribute expertise in research, capacity building, policy engagement and knowledge dissemination to strengthen the programme. The institute will also share knowledge on sustainable agriculture and responsible land management, areas linked to biodiversity protection, climate resilience and long-term food security.

Educational resources developed through the collaboration 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, added: “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.”

Building global collaboration

The programme also builds on UNU-INWEH’s wider online education initiatives, including its Online Learning Centre, Media Academy and the UN Water Conference Academic Hub, expanding capabilities developed over the institute’s 30-year history.

The partners also plan to expand the academy by developing a global network of universities, industry partners and research organisations. Opportunities for internships, fellowships, sabbaticals and specialised capacity development programmes are also expected to form part of the initiative.

Later this year, Nestlé and UNU-INWEH will jointly host a Sustainable Food Systems symposium, bringing together policymakers, researchers and industry experts to explore solutions for improving access to nutritious, affordable food.