Teagasc Runs Eight Special Careers Events

Issued 16^thNovember 2001

The full story on new Teagasc courses and on careers in agriculture and rural based industries will be given at eight special careers events in agricultural and horticultural colleges, starting on Tuesday, 27^th November.

Careers 2002 is being held against the background of radical changes in agriculture and horticulture courses. All courses are now nationally accredited, with a number of courses now on the CAO list. This brings Teagasc courses into the mainstream education system for the first time.

Announcing details of the major careers initiative, Paddy Browne, Head of Education with Teagasc, said it was aimed at giving information on every aspect of training in agriculture, horticulture, horses and forestry to school leavers and career guidance teachers.

''The upgrading of all Teagasc courses represents a watershed for the agriculture and food industry. As well as ensuring that courses are benchmarked to the highest international standards, students also have the opportunity to progress right up to university degree level. This offers exciting opportunities to participants'', he said.

''The introduction of the new courses is being accompanied by a massive investment programme in college facilities. This will ensure that the quality of training will be on a par with the best worldwide'', he addded.

Paddy Browne said the new enhanced courses will result in attractive career opportunities in agriculture, agri-business and in the thriving amenity horticulture and forestry areas. The Careers 2002 events will feature information on the careers opportunities and students will also meet potential employers.

All eight events run from 10.30am to 2.00pm.