Évora hosts AgriJovem2025 initiative dedicated to future agriculture professionals

Between 16 and 18 October 2025, the University of Évora will host the AgriJovem2025 initiative, organised by the European Commission Representation in Portugal in partnership with the National Rural Network and with the support of the University of Évora. The event, which will take place at Colégio do Espírito Santo, is aimed at higher education students in agricultural sciences aged up to 30 and enrolled in the 2025/2026 academic year.

Over three days, participants will have access to talks, debates and practical sessions on strategic topics for the agricultural sector, such as agricultural policy, economics and the agricultural market, trade, agribusiness and sustainable agriculture, with a special focus on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

"AgriJovem is an initiative for young agricultural science students who seek to reflect on the challenges facing the sector. Topics such as efficient water management, such as the European Water Resilience Strategy presented by the European Commission this year, will be highlighted in this initiative. We are counting on young people to actively contribute to the exchange of experiences and visions on innovation and modernisation in agriculture," said Christophe Hansen, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food.

The initiative also aims to promote greater awareness of the challenges and opportunities arising from the digital and energy transitions in the agricultural sector, encouraging the exchange of experiences between young students, early-career farmers and experienced farmers.

“The success of the first edition of AgriJovem testified to the enthusiasm, curiosity and sense of responsibility with which young people look to the future of agriculture. In 2025, we will once again bring together agricultural science students from across the country who are keen to deepen their knowledge of European policies and reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural sector in Portugal. In a year in which the Commission presented its Vision for Agriculture and the Food Sector, this meeting will also contribute to strengthening a more resilient, fair and youth-oriented agricultural model that will shape the future of the sector in Europe," says Sofia Moreira de Sousa, Representative of the European Commission in Portugal.

The application process runs from 1 to 25 July 2025, and interested parties must submit a letter of motivation. Up to 40 participants will be selected, with an emphasis on regional diversity and equal opportunities. All costs associated with participation, including travel and meals provided for in the programme, will be covered by the European Commission Representation in Portugal. At the end, a Certificate of Participation will be awarded.

"The PAC National Network welcomes the holding of AgriJovem 2025 — an initiative that represents the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment of the new generation to the future of agriculture. Following the success of the 2023 edition, which was widely recognised and well received, this new edition is once again fertile ground for innovative ideas, where the knowledge shared today becomes the sustainable solutions of tomorrow. By “Transferring Knowledge and Boosting Agriculture”, the National CAP Network reinforces its commitment to young people who are preparing today to lead tomorrow," emphasises Maria Custódia Correia, Director of Territorial Services and Rural Agents at the Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development.

In the year marking the 40th anniversary of Portugal's accession to the European Union, AgriJovem2025 will be a privileged space to reflect on the evolution of the CAP and discuss the future of European agriculture, highlighting the decisive role of the new generations in building a more competitive, fair and resilient agricultural sector.