
Are you interested in food security issues? Do you want to help sustainably feed a growing world?
If you are interested in researching and developing solutions to these challenging topics, and you are in grades 9-12, the Wisconsin Youth Institute (WYI) may be a great opportunity for you!
WYI attendees participate in the World Food Prize Foundation’s Global Challenge which is designed to empower high school students to explore, analyze and solve the world’s most pressing problems related to global food security, agriculture and sustainability issues.
Learn more about the institute and why you might want to participate using the frequently asked questions below.
Questions? Contact Wisconsin Youth Institute Coordinator, Kara Henderlight at kara.henderlight@wisc.edu.
NEW for 2025-Wisconsin Youth Institute Poster Showcase! The poster showcase is an exciting opportunity for you to harness and utilize your creativity and inspiration as a science communication tool to visually display your chosen research topic and country. Learn more about the guidelines and how to participate here.
Quick Links
WYI 2025 Dates and Deadlines
WYI 2025 is May 7, 2025
Registration opens soon!
Registration is due April 7
Paper submissions are due April
Frequently Asked Questions

Testimonials from WYI Participants and Global Youth Institute Delegates

“Participating in the Wisconsin Youth Institute with the World Food Prize Foundation has been an amazing experience. I’ve improved my communication skills through presentations and discussions with other students and experts. The session on water sanitation in different parts of the world was really eye-opening, helping me understand global issues better. This experience has made me more passionate about making a difference and taught me a lot about sustainability. I’m grateful for the chance to learn and grow in such a supportive environment, and I’m excited to use what I’ve learned in the future.”
Riya Kalluvila, WYI participant 2023 & 2024, GYI delegate 2024, and 2024 Borlaug Ruan International Internship participant

“Researching and preparing for my research paper and presentation has given me new insights into parts of the world I have never experienced myself. I gained empathy towards people impacted by insecurities in various areas such as water and food…I recognized that without the help of many people, solutions cannot be implemented even if they are suggested. Through the World Food Prize Foundation Youth Institute, I realized the importance of taking action to solve the issues in our world. On a personal level, I also gained the confidence to present my findings and suggest solutions to a group of people.”
Hannah Lee, WYI participant 2024, GYI delegate 2024
Office of Academic Affairs
116 Agricultural Hall
1450 Linden Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Office Hours: 7:45am – 4:30pm
For current & prospective student general inquiries:
Phone: 608.262.3003
Email: academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu