KIM O’Keeffe, the Nationals Member for Shepparton District, is urging for a substantial financial commitment to agricultural education.
Ms O’Keeffe recently participated in a roundtable discussion facilitated by La Trobe University Chancellor, Hon John Brumby AO, where strategies were explored to connect students with agriculture related employment and engagement as well as to facilitate industry pathways at a tertiary level.
“As the nation’s food bowl, the Goulburn Valley brims with opportunities. However, to sustain our world-class food and fibre production, we must ensure students have ‘paddock ready’ practical experiences to complement the classroom theory,” said Ms O’Keeffe.
“Victoria’s agriculture industry is predicted to be worth A$100 billion by 2030, and we need to be sure we have a skilled workforce that is ready to respond to that opportunity.”
In 2021, the in-school Vocational Education and Training (VET) stats revealed that 1,470 students embarked on studying a Certificate II in Agriculture. However, only 265 students (18 percent) managed to successfully complete the program.
“Hands-on experience to develop the skills involved in animal breeding and welfare, soil and plant biology, machinery operations, weed and pest control and agriculture is critical at a secondary school level,” said Ms O’Keeffe.
“To sustain our workforce, the Andrews Government must invest in agriculture and horticulture opportunities for secondary students, including appropriate facilities and qualified teachers.”
