Apply Now: FAO Girls in ICT Day 2026 E-Mentorship on AI in Agrifood Systems

In celebration of International Girls in ICT Day 2026, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced an exciting global opportunity for young women to participate in a virtual e-mentorship program focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in agrifood systems. This initiative is designed to bring together aspiring young women, experienced mentors, and global stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of technology and its impact on food systems worldwide.

About the Initiative

The E-Mentorship program is part of FAO’s broader efforts to address the digital gender divide by equipping girls and young women with the knowledge, confidence, and networks needed to thrive in technology-driven fields. Through this global online event, participants will explore both the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in transforming agrifood systems.

Agrifood systems are increasingly being shaped by digital innovations, and AI is playing a critical role in improving agricultural productivity, sustainability, and resilience. However, women and girls remain underrepresented in these technological advancements. This mentorship program seeks to bridge that gap by encouraging greater participation and ensuring that girls are not only beneficiaries of innovation but also active contributors to its development.

Event Theme and Objectives

The 2026 edition of the event will take place on April 23 under the theme:

“AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Digital Future.”

This theme underscores the importance of inclusive innovation and highlights the vital role that girls and young women play in accelerating the adoption and ethical use of AI technologies. It emphasizes that empowering girls in ICT is not only a matter of equality but also a necessity for sustainable global development.

The key objectives of the event include:

• Promoting awareness of AI applications in agrifood systems
• Encouraging girls to pursue careers and opportunities in ICT and related fields
• Providing mentorship and role models from diverse professional backgrounds
• Facilitating knowledge exchange between participants and experts
• Strengthening global efforts to close the digital gender gap

Structure of the E-Mentorship Session

A central component of this initiative is a two-hour virtual mentorship session tailored specifically for young women interested in AI and agrifood systems. This interactive session will feature:

• Expert Mentors: Professionals from the private sector, academia, and United Nations agencies will participate as mentors. These individuals bring a wealth of experience in AI, agriculture, and digital innovation.
• Career Insights: Mentors will share their personal career journeys, including the challenges they faced, the milestones they achieved, and the lessons they learned along the way.
• Aspirational Guidance: Participants will gain valuable advice on how to navigate educational and career pathways in technology and agrifood sectors.
• Interactive Q&A Session: Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, seek guidance, and engage directly with experts.

The session is designed to be highly engaging and participatory, ensuring that attendees not only listen but actively contribute to discussions.

Certification and Participation Benefits

All participants who successfully attend and complete the mentorship session will receive a certificate of participation. This certificate serves as recognition of their engagement and commitment to learning about AI applications in agrifood systems.

Beyond certification, participants will benefit from:

• Exposure to global perspectives on AI and agriculture
• Opportunities to network with professionals and peers
• Increased awareness of career pathways in emerging technological fields
• Enhanced confidence to participate in digital innovation spaces

Eligibility Criteria

FAO invites applications from young women around the world who meet the following requirements:

• Must be female and aged between 18 and 25 years
• Demonstrated interest in technology, agriculture, or the intersection of both
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a post-secondary institution (university or vocational program)
• Academic background in STEM or agriculture is advantageous but not mandatory
• Strong motivation to learn about AI applications in agrifood systems
• Commitment to attend the full mentorship session and actively participate in all activities
• Working proficiency in English
• Willingness to provide feedback after the session to support the improvement of future programs

Application Process and Deadline

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by April 5, 2026. Early registration is recommended due to the global nature of the program and the potential for high demand.

Click here to Register

Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and are available to attend the full session on April 23, 2026.

Advancing Inclusion in the Digital Age

This initiative reflects FAO’s commitment to fostering inclusive digital transformation in agrifood systems. By investing in the next generation of female leaders in ICT, the organization aims to create a more equitable and innovative future.

Programs like this not only provide knowledge and mentorship but also inspire confidence and ambition among young women. As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, ensuring that girls are equipped to participate meaningfully in this transformation is essential.

The E-Mentorship for Girls in ICT Day 2026 represents a valuable opportunity for young women to gain insights, build networks, and take a step forward in shaping the digital future of agrifood systems.