About Department of agriculture and rural development, northern ireland government
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Northern Ireland Government is a government agency that is responsible for the development and implementation of policies related to agriculture, food, fisheries, forestry, and rural development in Northern Ireland. The department works towards promoting sustainable economic growth in the agri-food sector while ensuring that the natural resources are protected.
One of the key institutions under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE). CAFRE offers a range of courses to students who are interested in pursuing careers within agri-food and rural businesses. The college also provides training opportunities for staff working within these industries.
CAFRE has been providing high-quality education to students since its establishment in 1924. Over the years, it has evolved into a modern institution that offers courses at various levels including further education courses, higher education courses as well as postgraduate programs. The college has three campuses located across Northern Ireland - Greenmount Campus (Antrim), Loughry Campus (Cookstown) and Enniskillen Campus (Fermanagh).
The courses offered by CAFRE cover a wide range of subjects including agriculture production systems; food technology; horticulture; land-based engineering; business management; environmental management; animal welfare; equine studies among others. These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills that they can apply in their future careers.
CAFRE's teaching staff comprises experienced professionals who have worked within various sectors of agri-food industry. They bring their wealth of knowledge into classrooms which ensures that students receive relevant training based on current industry practices.
In addition to offering academic programs, CAFRE also provides research services aimed at improving agricultural practices across Northern Ireland. The college collaborates with other institutions both locally and internationally on research projects aimed at addressing challenges facing farmers such as climate change adaptation strategies or disease control measures.
CAFRE's commitment to excellence has earned it recognition both locally and internationally. The college has won numerous awards for its contribution to the agri-food industry including the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Further and Higher Education in 2011.
In conclusion, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Northern Ireland Government through CAFRE is committed to promoting sustainable economic growth in the agri-food sector while ensuring that natural resources are protected. The college offers a range of courses designed to equip students with practical skills that they can apply in their future careers. With experienced teaching staff and a commitment to research excellence, CAFRE is an institution that is well-positioned to contribute towards the development of Northern Ireland's agri-food industry.