Six tertiary students have been awarded scholarships worth $5,000 each by the coalition Government to support the primary sector.
The On Farm Support Science Scholarships aim to build a knowledgeable advisory sector ready to provide practical support to farmers and growers. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announced the initiative today. The recipients are studying agricultural science, veterinary science, science, or commerce at Lincoln, Massey, and Otago universities.
The scholarship program is part of the Government's broader strategy to double export value over the next ten years. New Zealand's agriculture sector remains central to the economy, with food and fibre exports generating $53.3 billion in revenue as of June 2024. The initiative aims to reduce the regulatory burden on farmers and growers, while providing them with support to adapt and innovate.
The recipients will play a key role in helping the country's food and fibre sector thrive. They represent the future of primary industry advisory services, according to Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard.