“We will continue discussions to enable Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) students to participate in internships and professional programs at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO).”

Évariste Nicolétis, Coordinator and member of the High-Level Expert Panel of the UN FAO's Committee on Food Security, who has been visiting JBNU since January 22, said at a special lecture for JBNU students and staff at 10:00 AM on January 23 that he would support JBNU students' participation in FAO internship programs.

In his lecture titled “The Role of the FAO, Food Security and Agricultural Science Innovation,” Coordinator Nicolétis began with a brief explanation of the UN's organizational structure and objectives. He then described the current global state of food security and the FAO's role in addressing it.

He also introduced FAO's ongoing internship and Young Professional programs and said he would assist JBNU students in participating in such opportunities.

After the lecture, an open Q&A session with students provided an opportunity for in-depth discussion on changes to food security brought by the Russia–Ukraine war, shifts in food security due to COVID-19, and the role of international organizations such as the FAO.

Earlier, in June last year, JBNU President Yang Oh-bong met Évariste Nicolétis in France and established a network to develop sustainable food systems and realize a shared vision.

Through close cooperation with Coordinator Nicolétis, JBNU will also discuss the possible organization of a food-related Science Innovation Forum, one of the FAO's initiatives.

At the event, JBNU President Yang Oh-bong stated, “We plan to actively support our students who have a strong interest in the role and development of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.” He added, “Through support and interest, we hope they will grow into global leaders in the agri-food industry.”