UCD marks century of agricultural education with celebratory book
University College Dublin (UCD) has launched a landmark publication to celebrate 100 years of education, research and innovation.
The book -A History of Agriculture at UCD - examines the impact of agricultural education at the university and its role in shaping Ireland’s agriculture, food, forestry and rural development sectors.
It also traces UCD's origins from the Glasnevin Model Farm and Albert Agricultural College through the establishment of the Faculty of Agriculture at UCD in 1926.
The book was launched by UCD president, Professor Orla Feely, today (Thursday, June 18) at a special centenary event in O’Reilly Hall, attended by alumni, staff, students, industry representatives, government stakeholders and guests.
Professor Feely said: “This centenary provides an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary contribution that agricultural education and research at UCD have made to Ireland over the past century.
"Through the dedication of our staff, students and alumni, UCD has played a central role in advancing agricultural knowledge, supporting rural communities and driving innovation across the agri-food sector.
"This publication captures that remarkable story and preserves it for future generations.”
The university today delivers 17 undergraduate and 16 graduate taught programmes and educates approximately 3,000 students, including 2,150 undergraduates, 450 graduate taught students, 200 executive education students and 190 graduate research students.
UCD has 85 academic staff and 195 staff in total across academic, research, technical and administrative functions.
Professor Frank Monahan, dean of agriculture and head of the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, said today that the story of agriculture at UCD "is ultimately a story about people".
"It is the story of generations of students, academics, researchers, farmers, industry leaders and policymakers who have worked together to improve agricultural productivity, food quality, environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods.
"As we celebrate our first century, we also look ahead to the role the school will play in addressing the challenges of the next 100 years," Professor Monahan added.
