Teagasc Adult Training Programme Launched

Teagasc has launched its adult training and life long learning programme for 2007 – 2008.  The launch of the new programme, by the President of Macra Na Feirme, Catherine Buckley, took place in Dublin today, Wednesday, 29 August.

The Teagasc adult education programme, which is designed to meet all the statutory and practical training requirements of Irish farmers, is delivered at local training centres and colleges across the country. The courses cover a wide range of subject matter from leading edge technology and financial business training to forestry, environment management, food safety, animal welfare, occupational safety and equine management.  Full details of all courses are contained in an information booklet for farmers, which is available from any Teagasc office.

The 2007/08 adult training programme also includes a comprehensive I.T. training course for farmers in the practical application of computers in running the farm business.  In addition to those formal courses, Teagasc facilitates and conducts discussion group sessions in all the major farm enterprises in every county.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Pat Boyle, Teagasc Director of Advisory Services said; “Over 9,000 farmers attended our adult education courses last year. Some were full time farmers and were helped to improve their efficiency by analysing their current situation and enabling them to use better technology and management practices.  Others were helped to look at diversified enterprises to provide additional income, while many others attended in order to qualify for certain grant schemes and exemptions.”

Also speaking at the launch, Donal Carey, Teagasc Director of Education and Development said; “A key recommendation of the recent review of Teagasc’s education and training provision was the enhanced integration of the Teagasc education and training function with its advisory and research functions. This development will further improve the quality of adult education provided by Teagasc. This enhanced integration of colleges and local training centres will be co-ordinated by the establishment of Regional Working Committees (R.W.C.) between each college and the surrounding Teagasc area units.

Further details on any adult education course or discussion group, are available from the local Teagasc area manager, education officer, or local adviser.