Education, youth and food security. Case: México–Perú, 2025

Abstract

The objective was to analyze three fundamental issues affecting young people—employment, food security, and educational programs—and then relate them to a proposal for educational intervention. A high proportion of the youth population lacks access to quality education and training in skills that would enable them to access employment opportunities. This situation prevents society from taking advantage of the benefits of having a larger proportion of people of productive age; consequently, there is a growing risk that this population will face situations of food insecurity. To ensure young people’s access to food, especially those living in poverty and vulnerability, programs are required that recognize and value traditional knowledge. It is essential for institutions to look to the past—not to fully replicate ancient practices, but to recover those that allowed our ancestors to maintain a closer connection with nature, feed themselves from what they cultivated, and lead more harmonious and sustainable lives. It is necessary to educate about the importance of public policies that guarantee access to healthy foods and to promote collaborative initiatives between schools and communities, such as community gardens, which enable students and their families to learn, actively participate, and strengthen social ties.