Future of ag is in safe hands: Horizon Scholarship applicants impress

Applicants answered a series of questions regarding their commitment to agriculture, impact as a leader and career aspirations. Students with a strong awareness of challenges and opportunities within the agricultural sector, combined with specific goals aligned with agriculture, have been earmarked to progress to interview.

RIRDC Managing Director, John Harvey was impressed with the quality of applications for the 2017 scholarship round; further highlighting the future of agriculture is in safe hands.

“Now in its 8^th year, the Horizon Scholarship continues to gain momentum and attract quality applicants from across the country. To date we have awarded 84 scholarships supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said Mr Harvey.

“The program offers an unprecedented opportunity for students to connect with industry professionals and kick start their future career.”

The $5,000 per year scholarship gives students studying an ag-related degree the opportunity to immerse themselves in the agricultural sector, learn from industry professionals and undertake work placement to support their career aspirations.

RIRDC Communications Manager, Debbie van der Rijt said the talent pool has revealed a dynamic mix of students with a desire to positively impact the future of agriculture.

“We’ve received applications from all four corners of the country and it’s exciting to see the breadth of understanding the students have of the challenges, trends and innovations across the agricultural industry. We look forward to announcing the successful 2017 scholars in the coming months,” said Mrs van der Rijt.

2017 Horizon Scholarship recipients will be notified in May 2017.

Hear what past and present scholarship recipients have to say about their Horizon Scholarship experience via: http://www.rirdc.gov.au/horizon

Sponsors of the Horizon Scholarship are the Australian Egg Corporation, ANZ, Australian Wool Innovation, the Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Diary Australia, the Grains Research and Development Corporation, Horticulture Innovation Australia, McCaughey Memorial Institute, Meat & Livestock Australia and RIRDC (Rice and Chicken Meat research programs).