A University College Cork professor has highlighted the benefits of research-informed training in sustaining Irish agriculture into the future.
Frank Buckley, Professor of Agricultural Science and Academic Director of UCC’s Bachelor of Agricultural Science said that ‘research and innovation will be the backbone of a strong indigenous farming industry’.
“Research-informed sustainable farming practices can assist farmers in maintaining production and producing sustainably, while increasing profitability,” according to Professor Buckley. “The agri-food industry is changing rapidly, and farmers need to keep pace or risk being left behind.
“Current debates frame the future of agriculture in a false battle between sustainability and productivity, our graduates are learning it’s not either-or. Training our farmers to work in a more innovative and agile manner is key to ensuring the sector remains a viable career path for future generations”.
OPPORTUNITY
Prof. Buckley’s thoughts on the future of farming comes as the first students to graduate from UCC’s Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree were conferred last week, with a special awards ceremony held to congratulate exceptional students.
The programme is fast gaining a positive reputation – based on student satisfaction, external feedback and rising demand, with most students already securing employment.
The degree which is delivered through an integrated partnership with research, education and extension experts at Teagasc, primarily Teagasc Moorepark, but incorporating experts throughout the organisation equips students with the technical, financial, and sustainability expertise to lead future competitiveness in the agri-food industry. The course director is confident that the graduates, all of whom who already have secured a diverse range of high performance roles, and well on the way to assuming leadership roles in the sector, delivering on the ambition of this exclusive degree programme.
Delivery of the course is enhanced through practicals, field trips, farm visits, evening seminars, guest lecturers by industry leaders and block release days. There is an additional opportunity to undertake a study tour and work placement in New Zealand.
Students also achieve Trained Farmer Status (Green Cert) on graduation.
Graduate Amy Dunphy from Kerry does not come from a farming background but found the degree enhanced her career prospects.
“This degree has equipped me with the skills and experiences necessary to begin a career in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. The time I spent on my placements were the highlight of the four years for me. For those who are willing to take advantage of all it has to offer, this degree can open endless doors in the Irish dairy industry and beyond,” she said.
UCC is ranked Ireland’s no.1 university for the study of Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Ranking, 2021 and 2022).
