About the Arkansas Youth Institute
The Arkansas Youth Institute is a transformative experience where high school students engage with local leaders and agriculture experts on critical global challenges, participate in hands-on activities and explore meaningful ways to make a difference in Arkansas and around the world.
The Arkansas Youth Institute is hosted by the University of Arkansas with the generous support of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food, and Life Sciences; and Arkansas FFA.
Date: April 2, 2025
Venue: University of Arkansas
Registration Deadline: March 19, 2025
How to participate
Global Challenge Paper: To participate in the Arkansas Youth Institute, high school students research an issue related to food security and write a paper under the supervision of a teacher or mentor.
Cost: There is no registration cost to participate in the Institute and meals will be provided during the event. However, both student and teacher/mentor participants must organize their own transportation to and from the event in Fayetteville.
Eligibility: Ninth through twelfth grade students are eligible to participate in the Arkansas Youth Institute.
Global Challenge Instructions Sample Student Paper
Benefits of participating
Students who participate in the Arkansas Youth Institute earn recognition as a Borlaug Scholar and become eligible to be invited as a student delegate to attend the Global Youth Institute in Des Moines, Iowa. Participating high school students have the opportunity to:
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Present research and recommendations on ways to solve key global challenges in a short speech and small group discussions with leading agriculture experts;
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Become eligible for the Borlaug-Ruan International Internship, an all expenses-paid, eight-week hands-on experience for students to work with world-renowned scientists and policymakers at leading research centers around the world;
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Connect with other student leaders from across Arkansas to share ideas, identify solutions to these problems and build lasting friendships;
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Explore the issues, current research and opportunities to make a difference with organizations based in Arkansas; and
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Interact with global leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs in Arkansas working to improve food security around the world.
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Papers will be evaluated by the World Food Prize Board of Reviewers. Reviewers provide feedback to each student who participates in the Youth Institute.
For any questions about the Arkansas Youth Institute, please contact: Gordon Eichelberger, gordon.eichelberger@ade.arkansas.gov or 501-682-1594.