Young people are the best stewards for pulse innovation and their receptiveness to innovation can trigger real change
The cultivation of pulses, combined with the power of young people, can help achieve a transformation in our agrifood systems, said QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), at a virtual event held to mark World Pulses Day.
“Our agrifood systems need a paradigm shift,” said Qu, stating that “a focus on pulses can help us achieve this transformation, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
World Pulses Day seeks to raise awareness of the role of pulses in addressing food security challenges and their contribution to achieving a healthy and balanced diet. The theme for this year’s celebration is ’Pulses to empower youth in achieving sustainable agrifood systems’.
Pulses are also an affordable source of protein for a large proportion of the world’s rural populations who may have limited access to diversified diets. These species are also nutrient-dense, providing substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals that are important for good health, contributing to ’Better Nutrition’.
The United Nations General Assembly designated 10 February as World Pulses Day after the success of the International Year of Pulses in 2016, which was implemented by FAO. The initiative has since been supported by many Member countries.