JOOUST Don receives International Recognition for Mentorship in addressing global hunger through scientific research

Dr Matilda Auma, a Lecturer in the School of Agricultural and Food Sciences, has been honoured with the "Inspiring the Next Generation" award by the World Food Prize during the Laureate Award Ceremony held at the Iowa State Capitol.

This distinguished award is a testament to Dr. Matilda's unwavering commitment to fostering the aspirations of students through the World Food Prize youth programs, encouraging them to follow in the footsteps of the revered Iowa hero, Norman Borlaug.

Jeanie Borlaug, the daughter of Norman Borlaug, expressed her delight in presenting this award, acknowledging Dr Matilda's 23 years of dedicated mentorship to the Borlaug International Interns at the – International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Kenya. Dr. Matilda has warmly embraced all recipients throughout her remarkable tenure.

Throughout the years, Dr. Matilda has been a guiding light, an endless source of encouragement, a dedicated instructor, and an immense source of inspiration to thousands of high school students participating in the World Food Prize youth education programs. This award was established to pay tribute to the invaluable role played by educators critical to the success of the World Food Prize youth education programs.

While the World Food Prize recognizes the accomplishments of student participants through various awards and honors, the "Inspiring the Next Generation" award marks a significant milestone as it acknowledges the hard work and dedication of teachers for the first time. Dr. Matilda, upon receiving the award, eloquently stated, "This recognition has etched my footprints on the canvas of global food security. The inspiration within the Global Youth Institute is immeasurable, and the dividends are the interns of today."

Over the past 23 years, she has provided educational leadership to 33 international interns who are the next generation of champions against hunger. Her wealth of experience in the field has made her a central figure for guidance, motivation, instruction, and inspiration.

Jeanie Borlaug Laube, daughter of Norman Borlaug and a former teacher herself, presented the award, emphasizing her father's identity as a dedicated teacher. She expressed her father's deep gratitude for Dr. Matilda's role in inspiring the thousands of students who participate in their programs annually.

The "Inspiring the Next Generation" award is an annual recognition given to a teacher involved in the World Food Prize youth programs who has made significant contributions to the program's success and has been a remarkable source of inspiration to the students involved.

The World Food Prize is a prestigious international award that acknowledges the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing human development by enhancing the quality, quantity, or availability of food worldwide. Founded in 1986 by Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient in 1970, the World Food Prize has celebrated 48 exceptional individuals who have made crucial contributions across the globe. The World Food Prize annually hosts the Borlaug Dialogue international symposium and a range of youth education programs to stimulate discussions on cutting-edge global food security issues and to inspire the next generation in the fight against hunger.