Connecting Global Youth with Agricultural Heritage at Shanghai Event

Youth Action on Green Agri-Heritage Global Cultural Symbiosis Event

On August 12, 2025, Shanghai hosted the Youth Action on Green Agri-Heritage Global Cultural Symbiosis event, in celebration of International Youth Day. This initiative aimed to bridge the rich agricultural heritage of China with global youth-driven innovation, and it involved numerous engaging activities designed to foster collaboration and creativity among young people.

The event opened with a vibrant ceremony at the Shanghai People's City Practice Exhibition Hall, symbolizing Shanghai's commitment to people-centered urban development. It was a key celebration marking the 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth, which advocates policies and programs for empowering youth.

Gao Anming, editor-in-chief of the China International Communications Group, shared a pre-recorded message emphasizing China's legacy as a leader in preserving Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). He underscored that agricultural heritage is not merely a relic of the past but a rich source of wisdom that can guide humanity in facing modern challenges. Additionally, he noted the importance of this initiative in fostering multicultural dialogue.

Zhou Lijin, a representative from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighted the pivotal role of youth as catalysts for change. She stated that involving young people in agri-food systems is essential for promoting sustainable agricultural development. The World Food Forum provided a vital platform for nurturing youth-led innovations, encouraging the sharing of creative solutions to contemporary issues surrounding agriculture.

Zeng Zixin from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs also spoke about China's active role in the GIAHS initiative since its inception in 2002. With 25 GIAHS recognized to date, Zeng voiced a strong commitment to leveraging this heritage for rural revitalization and global food security, aligning with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The program launched at the event aims to promote cultural exchanges and mutual learning related to agricultural heritage, encouraging robust engagement from diverse stakeholders, including UN agencies, agricultural experts, public figures, and the youth themselves. Activities planned to engage participants will take place not only in Shanghai but also in locations such as Jeju Island in South Korea, Vientiane in Laos, and Rome in Italy.

A keynote speech by Min Qingwen from the Chinese Academy of Sciences elaborated on the significant values of agricultural cultural heritage and emphasized the urgent need for the youth to contribute actively in the preservation and development of these unique systems. The event included special visual showcases capturing the beauty and richness of agricultural life, a documentary effort by a team of international youth filmmakers who aimed to rejuvenate the narrative surrounding agricultural heritage through art and technology.

Participants also explored the Laos Economic and Trade Cooperation Expo, where they engaged with exhibits featuring Lao agricultural products, gaining insights into cross-border cooperation in heritage conservation and sustainable development. This experience solidified the participant's understanding of international agricultural dynamics and opened discussions for future collaborations.

This event, hosted by the FAO Representation in China along with several partners like Pinduoduo and the China Agricultural Science and Education Foundation, gathered around 80 attendees, including government officials, youth delegates from various countries, and media representatives.

In conclusion, the Youth Action on Green Agri-Heritage Global Cultural Symbiosis event marked a significant milestone in connecting youth with their agricultural heritage, aiming to inspire them to partake in dialogues that lead to sustainable innovation and global cooperation. It sets a foundation for future activities that will enhance the visibility and appreciation of agricultural heritage while empowering youth to play an active role in shaping sustainable futures.