Advancing agricultural opportunities through higher education: empowering youth, especially those from non-agricultural backgrounds, to pursue careers in agriculture

This report underscores the urgent importance of nurturing young individuals’ participation and experiences in agriculture, recognising their pivotal role in driving innovation, sustainability, food security, and addressing the changing dynamics of the agricultural workforce. Agriculture and agrifood higher education degrees globally provide students with a wide range of subjects, learning experiences, and industry engagement opportunities, offering a diverse array of career pathways within the agrifood supply chain.

The agricultural and agrifood sectors are undergoing transformative changes, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing pressures of environmental and societal demands. Professionals in these sectors require new skills to adapt and thrive.

Over the past decade, the number of agricultural university graduates in Australia has stagnated, while job opportunities in the sector continue to outpace graduate supply. Attracting and retaining skilled individuals in agriculture must be a top priority.

Staying current with technical innovations is essential for the progress of agriculture. Ensuring students and young people entering the workforce are well equipped to lead in this rapidly evolving field is critical. Opportunities for students studying agriculture to gain real world experiences through work placements, internships and graduate programs are vital. These experiences lead to increased confidence, maturity, and problem-solving skills.

The report emphasises the need to champion diversity, welcoming young people from diverse backgrounds into the agricultural sector to inject fresh perspectives and ideas. It highlights the importance of dispelling misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding careers in agriculture. Collaborative efforts involving educational institutions, industry stakeholders, consumers and students are instrumental in creating environments that foster the success of young people in agriculture.

The report features success stories and case studies of individuals and programs, that can assist in encouraging and supporting young people in agriculture, particularly those from non-agricultural backgrounds. Industry support programs, including mentoring and graduate programs are vital links in attracting and retaining agricultural graduates.

In conclusion, this report emphasizes the crucial role of young individuals in shaping the future of agriculture, technology and sustainability. By embracing diversity, encouraging collaboration and providing meaningful opportunities, the agricultural industry can inspire and equip the next generation to become leaders in this evolving landscape. Ensuring that tomorrow’s agricultural leaders are well prepared and supported is essential for a thriving agricultural sector in Australia.