The session will provide a platform to discuss how marginal lands can be transformed into productive and climate-resilient agroecosystems through Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS), with a particular focus on water efficiency, farmer benefits, socio-economic opportunities, business models, scaling, and policy support. The discussions and key messages emerging from the technical session will provide the basis for further developing the VENUS Open Day, where participants will be invited to explore the projects practical activities, field experiences, and research facilities at the National Water Research Center.