The Value and Relevance of Today’s Agricultural Degree
From the perspective of Lincoln University Student, Ashleigh van Uffelen
As I near completion of my summer internship at The AgriBusiness Group and prepare to return to student life at Lincoln University, I reflect on the value and relevance of today’s agricultural degree – specifically for the environmental management of farm systems. This year, I will undertake my fourth and final year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) with a Major in Environmental Management.
Ashleigh van Uffelen - summer intern at The AgriBusiness Group
During my time at university, a comprehensive education on the fundamentals of agricultural science has been provided. These include soil and nutrient management, farm systems and management, and animal science to name a few. There are many areas Lincoln University particularly excels in, such as:
The support offered by lecturers. Most provide easy access to one-on-one help if needed, with some even offering walk-in office help at any time of day.
Exposing students to networking opportunities. These can act as a stimulant for students to become self-motivated and educate themselves in areas outside of university. In addition, students develop skills to critically evaluate new information and evidence, link different ideas and integrate alternative points of view.
Mandatory completion of practical farm work during the summer holidays. This strengthens the understanding of academic theory by applying it in the real world. Students gain valuable experience in the agricultural industry, providing them with a competitive advantage. Those pursuing a career as a rural professional can better relate to farmers and their farm systems.
However, after experiencing a taster of life as a rural professional, I have noticed knowledge gaps in university education surrounding the environmental space. Key areas include:
Carbon farming. Rural professionals will need to evaluate the economic and environmental considerations for integrating forestry into farm systems, the challenges associated with the conversion, and understand the ETS and how to support farmers in interpreting this.
An understanding of He Waka Eke Noa. Farmers and growers require support on practical solutions to reduce emissions and build resilience to climate change.
Regulations affecting the agricultural sector, such as the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management and the proposed National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity.
Awareness of new technologies set to significantly change the way we farm, such as Halter and fertigation systems.
Some courses at Lincoln University do briefly touch on these areas. However, in many instances, this only involves one brief lecture on the topic, with no further assessment. I understand teaching a wide range of topics in light detail enables students to discover more areas of passion and interest. It also reflects the wide range of roles available on-farm or off-farm. However, I believe that the major challenges in the industry today require graduates to be well-equipped with a diverse toolkit of current knowledge and practical skills. Employers will be seeking relevant curriculum expertise in the graduates they employ.
Degrees that are adaptable to industry changes ensures relevance and provide graduates with an education to hit the ground running. For papers specifically, there would be great value in providing a course on carbon farming and the relationship between agriculture and the ETS. There is a current shortage of rural professionals with forestry and farm system expertise.
Increased incorporation of contemporary topics and regular critiquing of course suitability will enhance the reputation of an agricultural degree and Lincoln graduates. This would help provide a seamless transition into the workforce with the university fostering progress to better handle current challenges.
My time at The AgriBusiness Group has developed and strengthened my thinking on how I can best support farmers in New Zealand. I will continue to embrace opportunities to grow my knowledge in new legislation, technology and carbon farming. This will enable me to contribute towards and help deliver practical, innovative solutions to farmers and the wider agricultural industry.
Any comments or questions? Leave them in the comment box below or contact Ashleigh directly on ashleigh@agribusinessgroup.com. If you are needing help with your farm environment plan or audit get in touch.
Article written by Ashleigh van Uffelen
