“The agri-food and land-based sectors are rooted in tradition and driven by innovation” she said. They offer an abundance of rewarding career opportunities available to young people in Northern Ireland.

The MP added: “The industry is the backbone of our economy, contributing around £6 billion annually and supporting tens of thousands of jobs across farming, food production, processing, engineering, transport and rural enterprises.

“A wide range of courses will be highlighted at the forthcoming Open Week hosted by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise.”

From Saturday, 7^th March to Friday, 13^th March, CAFRE is hosting course-specific events at its three campuses at Enniskillen, Loughry (Cookstown), Greenmount (Antrim).

Carla Lockhart MP said: “These events provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the excellent specialist teaching, learning and residential facilities, and to gain a real insight into life as a CAFRE student. Staff and current students will lead tours and be on hand to answer questions about courses, careers and campus life.”

“There is something to suit everyone, including Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications; as well as a range of BSc Honours and Foundation Degree courses in partnership with Ulster University and Queen's University Belfast.

She added: “The Enniskillen Campus offers the widest range of equine-specific courses in Ireland; while the Loughry Campus focuses on food innovation, science, technology and nutrition. The Greenmount Campus provides courses in agriculture, floristry, horticulture, land-based engineering and veterinary nursing.”

“CAFRE has close partnerships with industry which help to secure bursaries, study visits and work placements, meaning many students move directly into employment, even before graduation. The college’s ethos of ‘learning by doing’ ensures that students gain hands-on experience using the latest science, technology and business management techniques.”

The DUP’s Agriculture spokesperson concluded: “I strongly encourage all prospective students and their families to book a place during Open Week, explore the courses on offer and discover the exciting opportunities available.



“Agriculture and the agri-food sector remain central to Northern Ireland’s prosperity, and CAFRE is equipping the next generation to lead that future with skill, innovation and confidence.”