Certified Specialist Programme in Food System Governance
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to be joined by Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in food system governance and the lead instructor for the Certified Specialist Programme in Food System Governance. Dr. Smith, welcome! GUEST: Thank you for having me, it's a pleasure to be here. HOST: To start, could you share a bit about your personal experiences and insights related to food system governance? GUEST: Absolutely, I've spent over two decades working in this field, and what I've come to realize is that our food systems are incredibly complex and interconnected. Effective governance is key to ensuring sustainable food systems and food security for all. HOST: That's a great point. And what current industry trends do you think are most relevant to the course? GUEST: There are several, but one that stands out is the increasing demand for transparency in food supply chains. Consumers, regulators, and even investors are demanding greater accountability from food companies, which is reshaping the way we think about governance. HOST: I can imagine that presents some challenges. What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in this field or while teaching this subject? GUEST: One challenge is the sheer complexity of food systems. It's a multidisciplinary field that requires an understanding of everything from agriculture and environmental science to economics and policy-making. Keeping up with all these different areas can be quite challenging. HOST: I bet. Looking to the future, what do you see as the biggest opportunities or challenges in this area? GUEST: I think one of the biggest opportunities is the potential for technology to transform food systems. From precision agriculture to blockchain-based supply chains, there's a lot of potential for innovation. But at the same time, we need to ensure that these technologies are used in a way that promotes sustainability and equity. HOST: That's a great perspective. Before we wrap up, could you tell us a bit more about the Certified Specialist Programme in Food System Governance and what participants can expect to gain from it? GUEST: Of course. This programme is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate complex food systems. Participants will learn about sustainable food systems, food security, and agricultural policy. They'll also have the opportunity to analyze governance structures, understand food supply chains, and develop effective strategies for change. It's a hands-on programme that integrates practical case studies and interactive workshops. HOST: It sounds like a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to make a difference in this field. Thanks so much for joining us today, Dr. Smith. GUEST: My pleasure, thank you for having me.
