three persons
From left: Paul Egan, programme coordinator GCUA 2030, Nils Roos, Agricultural counselor, DVM, and Ylva Hillbur, Pro Vice-chancellor SLU

Advancing global agrifood collaboration through GCUA 2030

News published:  18/05/2026

Representatives from SLU and the Global Challenges University Alliance (GCUA 2030) gathered at the Embassy of Sweden in Washington, D.C. in late March to strengthen international collaboration on sustainable agrifood systems and innovation.

The event brought together participants from academia, government, industry, NGOs, and international organisations, including the World Bank, UN FAO, USDA, and U.S. policy representatives. Read the personal reflections shared by programme coordinator Paul Egan. 

The discussions focused on shared global challenges facing agriculture and food systems, including climate pressures, supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, antimicrobial resistance, and the need for sustainable innovation. Speakers highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships and international research collaboration in developing practical solutions.

“In times when international collaboration can feel more fragile or politically complicated, long-term university partnerships help provide continuity, stability, and shared direction,” said Paul Egan, Programme Coordinator for GCUA 2030.

The meeting also highlighted the role of universities as conveners, bringing together public institutions, civil society, and industry to address complex global challenges that no single organisation can solve alone.

Read the full blog post here

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