On March 22, the New York Youth Institute (NYYI) united ninety students from 36 high schools across New York State for an enriching day of learning at Cornell University. These bright young minds came together to share their research and innovative ideas, addressing critical global challenges and fostering a collaborative spirit in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.
The event was marked by a series of enriching activities aimed at fostering knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation in the field of development and global challenges.
The day commenced with a warm welcome from New York Youth Institute (NYYI), World Food Prize Foundation (WFPF), and Cornell CALS leadership, including Polly Endreny Holmberg, Abigail Turner, and CALS Dean Benjamin Houlton. The stage was then set for Francine Barchett, CALS PhD Candidate, and the WFPF Council of Advisors Youth Member.
The highlight of the day was the roundtables session, where students presented their research and engaged in discussions within small group settings. This unique opportunity for collaboration and mentorship allowed students to refine their ideas in the topics of Zero Hunger, Social Inequality, and Climate Action and gain valuable insights from roundtable expert panelists, including CALS professors, Ph.D. candidates and 2023-24 Cornell Fulbright Humphrey Fellows.
“Attending the New York Youth Institute was eye-opening,” said Daniel Kibatullin, a student from Stuyvesant High School in New York City. Kibatullin, whose project focused on sustainable agriculture in the Netherlands and the country’s reputation for innovative farming practices and efficient land use, shared that highlights included meeting fascinating people, presenting his project, and learning about new aspects of agriculture. “Overall, the experience broadened my perspective and motivated me to contribute to agricultural advancements,” Kibatullin added.
