The Victorian Government has announced an extra investment in agriculture education in secondary schools supporting more students to embark on a career in the primary industries.
Minister for Education James Merlino and Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas today announced applications are now open for the Labor Government’s $5.5 million Secondary Schools Agriculture Fund which will support schools, industry groups and community organisations to inspire students into local agricultural careers.
“The future of Victoria’s nation-leading agriculture sector is bright – and we’re proud to be supporting more Victorian students to get involved in the modern, growing industry while they’re still at school,” said Mr Merlino.
“This program is all about making sure our students have real-world opportunities to make the most of existing and emerging agriculture and horticulture career pathways.”
The funding is set to raise awareness for agriculture opportunities, improve agriculture teaching capability and offer more opportunities within schools for students to develop the skills they need to transition into modern careers in agriculture.
Funding will be available for a range of agriculture education activities like designing programs, engaging with local industry, purchasing equipment and other needs schools have in order to deliver quality agriculture studies.
“We want to attract the best and brightest young innovators who are keen to get into our agriculture sector – developing the food and fibre industry’s leaders of tomorrow and setting them up for exciting careers,” said Ms Thomas.
Applications for the Secondary Schools Agriculture Fund: Schools and Place-based stream are now open, and will close on 24 June. For more information, visit vic.gov.au/secondary-schools-agriculture-fund.
