A vision for plant science education

The urgent need to support and sustain plant research is indisputable, but sometimes plant education, the foundation upon which research rests, doesn’t get the same support. In January 2025, a group of dedicated educators (mostly higher education and outreach) spent two days together to strategize a vision for a secure, sustainable, and effective educational landscape. The result, titled a Manifesto for Plant Science Education, identified five themes: (i) plants must be at the center of an education that addresses global challenges and societal values; (ii) plant science education must prepare students for their futures using bold and effective pedagogies; (iii) equity, diversity and inclusion must be robustly embedded in educational practices; (iv) local and strategic partnerships (with industry and beyond) are required to strengthen academic education; and (v) plant science educators need resources and opportunities to develop and connect. Specific actions in support of the five themes are provided. The authors conclude with a call to action, “Just as investment in plant science research is deemed essential and urgent, so too is a concerted and sustained commitment to plant science education at all levels. We urge educators, institutions, policymakers and industry partners to actively engage with the recommendations made here.” (Summary by Mary Williams @PlantTeaching.bsky.social) Plants People Planet 10.1002/ppp3.70115