Students get dairy industry boost

DairyNZ has awarded 25 new undergraduate scholarships in a selection round that attracted a record 120 applicants.
The scholarship programme supports outstanding students with a particular interest in dairying, who are undertaking an agriculture- related degree.

The type of people who are applying for the scholarship is a real positive for the dairy industry according to DairyNZ industry education facilitator, Bill Barwood.  Of the record 120 applications received over half had no background in dairying.

“We are attracting applicants from urban areas who want to get into the dairy industry which is fantastic,” says Bill.
He is thrilled with the high calibre of recipients, who will be supported in reaching their potential as future leaders of the dairy industry, through the scholarship.

“The scholarship winners are all outstanding young people who have displayed great leadership qualities and excelled in English, the sciences and mathematics,” says Bill.

“What continues to pleasantly surprise me is that we get so many talented young people who have such a big contribution to make,” he says.

 The scholarships assist students meeting the costs of university study at Massey University or Lincoln University. The value of the scholarship is $5000 per year. Scholarship winners are mentored and supported through university and can expect to gain employment in a variety of positions, either on farms or in the support areas in dairying.

As part of the application process the candidates had to write three statements proving their commitment to the dairy industry. This included their past, present and future involvement in the industry, their leadership aspirations and an explanation of what they have to offer.

Ten years on, the scholarship programme is meeting targets.

Former scholarship winners are already reaching the goals they outlined in their applications.  There are now 116 graduates from the scholarship programme, 84 percent of who are involved in agriculture in New Zealand in some capacity.

By far the biggest form of employment for graduates is dairy farming with many already responsible for a number of staff.

“The scholarships were set up to attract and support outstanding young New Zealanders into the dairy industry as future potential leaders. We want them to be bright, talented, passionate and committed and over the years that is exactly what we’ve got,” says Bill.

Media contact:
Hayley Gavan
DairyNZ Communications Assistant
Phone: 07 858 3786
Mobile: 021 703 068
Email: hayley.gavan@dairynz.co.nz