Why Global Food Systems Leadership?

The Global Food Systems Leadership secondary major is extremely unique to Kansas State University. No other university in the United States offers a program that explores the most pressing global issues facing our food systems and provides an opportunity for college students to be a catalyst for change. From setting yourself apart from other professionals to gaining a world view that understands the needs of others, this secondary major prepares you for a wide range of careers and ensures you are ready to tackle the grand challenges facing food systems across the globe.

We Need Your Leadership

Feeding our growing world population is a complex challenge that involves issues like: malnutrition, corruption, poverty, food waste, natural disasters, poor infrastructure, land ownership inequalities, food insecurity, climate change, and more. These topics, sometimes referred to as "wicked problems," are difficult to solve due to the ever-changing nature of these issues. However, your leadership can be a contributor to addressing these large scale, systemic problems.

• We must feed 10 billion people by the year 2050, and do so sustainably. How are we going to do that?
  
  
• 1/3 of all food produced in the world is wasted. Why is this? What can we do to prevent it?
  
  
• In developing countries, women can be responsible for up to 80% of food production. But what if women can't own land and need to care for children?
  
  
• 159 million children under the age of five are stunted due to inadequate nutrition. How do we close this gap?

We must respond to these challenges utilizing a systems-based approach, and there are very few courses on college campuses that are having these conversations.

Make Positive Change for Food and Agriculture

Alone, we cannot solve the immense challenges that our global food systems face. It will take open-mindedness, a multitude of perspectives, diverse areas of expertise, and the willingness to work together. It is essential to cultivate leaders who have global awareness, research experience, and a multidisciplinary approach to the food system.

Through Global Food Systems Leadership, you will investigate real issues and propose creative solutions. You will be challenged to better understand your leadership approach, beliefs, and aspirations for the future. You will also build the interpersonal communication skills and emotional intelligence to engage others with diverse opinions and backgrounds in your work. Opportunities for careers connected to our global food system are abundant and in demand. As a professional entering this expansive sector, Global Food Systems Leadership gives you the expertise and versatility to be confident as you work to foster positive change.