A first-of-its-kind program will encourage university students from diverse disciplines to ‘test-drive’ a career in Australia’s agriculture industry, to increase skilled students entering the sector and to help meet demands for a larger, more diverse workforce.
University of Queensland students will be offered hands-on experience in multidisciplinary team-based industry placements after securing funding from the Australian Government’s AgConnections - Skilled Agricultural Work Liaison pilot project.
Led by , the project will showcase that agriculture can be a career option not just for people who study agricultural science.
“What sets this placement program apart is how students from a variety of disciplines are grouped together before and during their industry placement,” Professor Bansal said.
“By making the placement course available in several degree programs, it encourages students to work with peers from traditionally non-agricultural disciplines.
“Students from animal science, biotechnology, business, engineering, environmental science and other science streams like mathematics can offer the sector a range of skill sets.”
Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Anthony Chisholm said by targeting a broad range of careers in agriculture, these work liaison programs will overcome preconceived stereotypes of who can start a career in agriculture.
“Some students, especially those in our cities, can see a career in agriculture as something that’s only for those who live in the regions or for those whose family own land that can be used to operate an agribusiness,” Senator Chisholm said.
“AgConnections aims to break down these misconceptions and build on the diversity of the industry, by highlighting and encouraging women and Indigenous Australians wanting to pursue a career in agriculture.”
Almost $250,000 is being provided by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, with 国产探花 providing cash and in-kind contributions to support the project.
said the University would partner with industry to co-design placements that focus on key areas of sustainability, biosecurity, and innovation.
“国产探花 is ranked number one in Australia for agriculture, and we have a proven track record of delivering student-industry engagement programs,” Professor Terry said.
“The AgriSkills Accelerator is another example of building capacity for industry, alongside the success of our , known as FaBA, established under the government’s Trailblazer Universities Program to boost growth and innovation in the sector through industry, university and government partnerships.”
A mentoring team of academics and PhD students will guide students through placements, ensuring academic and professional support.
Travel support and bursaries for Indigenous, rural, and disadvantaged students will also be available.
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-Megan-Pope-国产探花_620.jpg?itok=HheutY-P "Professor David Jordan, Dr Geetika Geetika and Professor Andrew Borrell investigate a sorghum crop.")
