Investing in forestry education can change the world for better. Youth are future owners of soil, land and nature and it is thus never too early to get them started on forestry education. Nurturing a strong connection of children with nature helps strengthen youth’s connection and consciousness on the benefits of forests and their services, vital to humans. Bring an understanding of nature into youth’s lives is especially important in a world that is increasingly urbanized and disconnected from nature. Youth’s connection with nature in turn increases their engagement in sustainably managing natural resources. As José Graziano da Silva, FAO's Director-General, stated "Education is a critical step to safeguarding natural resources for future generations”.

After learning about the role of forests, James Daryll Rey for instance persuaded his parents to stop their charcoal business and got local politicians to join his advocacy and leading the whole community to save the fading forest. In 2016, as grade six pupil, he was awarded the title of “Earth Youth Ambassador” of forests.

The power of youth is becoming very evident in recent months. FridaysforFuture is mobilizing youth from across the world. During the week of March 15, approximately 1.6 million people striked in more than 125 countries and 2000 cities.

Consequently, engaging youth in forest and water issues is important not only to educate them about the importance of forests for water services and global issues and risks of water security, but also to ensure there will be scientists, policy makers, foresters and local communities working on integrated natural resource management.