Fostering food security through sustainable youth regeneration in Yogyakarta

In a groundbreaking initiative to address the pressing issue of food security, The Pijar Foundation, in collaboration with the National Administration Institute of the Republic of Indonesia (LAN RI), Eduoflite, and IDNL Yogyakarta, organized the Townhall Muda Yogyakarta on June 9, 2023. This collaborative forum aimed to fortify national food reserves and proactively prevent a potential global food crisis. With the theme "Achieving Food Security Through Sustainable Youth Regeneration," the event gathered key stakeholders, government officials, academics, students, and advocates to delve into crucial aspects of ensuring a stable and secure food supply.

The primary objective of Townhall Muda Yogyakarta was to create a space for comprehensive discussions on achieving sustainable food security, with a specific focus on the active involvement of youth in the process. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the event sought to identify indicators of achievement, evaluate existing government programs, explore academic viewpoints on food security, and emphasize the pivotal role of young individuals in securing a stable food supply for the nation.

The Townhall Muda Yogyakarta featured engaging sessions that covered a spectrum of topics related to food security. Participants had the opportunity to delve into the assessment of indicators that signify progress in achieving food security. Government programs aimed at bolstering the nation's food reserves were scrutinized, providing a platform for participants to offer insights and recommendations for improvement. The academic community played a significant role in the discussions, presenting diverse perspectives on food security challenges and proposing innovative solutions. The event facilitated an exchange of ideas between scholars, students, and professionals, fostering a collaborative environment that promoted holistic problem-solving.

Central to the theme, the townhall emphasized the crucial role of youth in achieving sustainable food security. Participants discussed ways in which young individuals could actively contribute to the cause, not only as beneficiaries of food security initiatives but as proactive agents of change. The event recognized the potential of youth in driving innovation, implementing sustainable practices, and advocating for policies that prioritize food security.

To ensure that the momentum generated, Townhall Muda was sustained beyond the event, participants and key stakeholders initiated a collaborative effort. A dedicated Telegram group was launched to facilitate ongoing discussions, information sharing, and collaboration. This digital platform became a hub for exchanging ideas, sharing resources, and coordinating efforts to further the goals outlined during the Townhall Muda Yogyakarta.

The Townhall Muda Yogyakarta stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in addressing critical issues such as food security. By bringing together government representatives, academics, and the youth, the event provided a platform for multifaceted discussions and innovative solutions. The commitment to ongoing collaboration, as demonstrated through the Telegram group, ensures that the insights and initiatives sparked during the townhall continue to flourish, contributing to the overarching goal of achieving sustainable food security in Indonesia.

This article was written by Gabriella Anindyacitta S. B.