What's Happening?
On November 13, 2025, nearly 50 students from Georgetown University and George Washington University participated in a hands-on learning visit at the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)
headquarters in Washington, D.C. The focus of the visit was the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI), a tool used to measure women's inclusion and empowerment in agricultural and food systems. The students engaged with the WEAI team, including Senior Research Fellow Jessica Heckert and Senior Research Coordinator Hazel Malapit, who provided insights on integrating gender into research and development projects. The visit aimed to connect academic coursework with real-world applications, emphasizing the importance of women's empowerment in achieving sustainable development goals.
Why It's Important?
The event underscores the critical role of education and practical experience in advancing gender equality in agriculture. By equipping students with tools like the WEAI, institutions like IFPRI are fostering a new generation of researchers and practitioners who can effectively address gender disparities in agricultural systems. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to achieve the United Nations' sustainable development goals, particularly those related to gender equality and food security. Empowering women in agriculture not only enhances productivity but also contributes to economic growth and social stability, making it a vital component of global development strategies.
What's Next?
The students' engagement with the WEAI and IFPRI's experts is expected to inspire further research and development projects focused on gender equality in agriculture. As these students advance in their careers, they may apply the knowledge and skills gained from this experience to design and implement more inclusive and effective community-based programs. Additionally, the collaboration between academic institutions and research organizations like IFPRI may lead to more comprehensive studies and policy recommendations that address the multifaceted challenges of women's empowerment in agriculture.
