Dairygold awards 2 bursaries to 'future agri-leaders' at UCC

Dairygold has awarded two undergraduate bursaries to students undertaking the Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at University College Cork (UCC).

The successful students will receive an annual bursary for the duration of their four-year undergraduate studies at UCC and will also be offered the opportunity of a work placement with Dairygold.

This year’s recipients are Paul O’Brien from Lismore, Co. Waterford, and Barry Stratford from Virginia, Co. Cavan, who are both in their first year of the Bachelor of Agricultural Science at UCC.

Adrian Beatty, group head of human resources, Dairygold said: “We are delighted to continue this strategic partnership with UCC which will nurture and develop the agri-business leaders of the future.”

Dairygold’s sponsorship of the bursaries began in 2019 to mark the introduction of the first Agricultural Science degree at UCC. The recipients are selected following an application process, inclusive of interview. They are required to submit an annual progress report for the duration of their degree.

Prof. Andy Wheeler, head of UCC’s School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, commented, stating:

“We are incredibly grateful to Dairygold for their ongoing support which enables our students to pursue a career in the exciting and innovative agricultural industry.”

The Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree was launched in 2019 and focuses on the science behind modern agriculture, and on supporting students to gain skills in farm management, business acumen and farm technology.

It also includes a placement opportunity which provides students with direct experience of working in the Irish agriculture industry.

Prof. Gerry Boyle, Director of Teagasc, added: “The Bachelor of Agricultural Science at UCC is especially tailored to attract those with a particular passion for dairying.”

The course is taught by the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UCC with input from across the university, and in close collaboration with Teagasc.