University of Queensland agribusiness graduates have been told the global financial crisis is just one of the challenges that will confront them when they enter the workforce.
President of the National Farmers Federation David Crombie addressed the recent Agribusiness and Rural Management Graduation Dinner at UQ Gatton and spoke of the looming crisis of food production around the world.
Mr Crombie said with increased demand on food production came increased opportunities for industries, and graduates, open to innovation.
“With the projected increase in world population and the resultant increase in the demand for food, Australian agriculture has an important role to play,” Mr Crombie said.
“Increased productivity will be required from diminishing land areas, with less water and other inputs and with a lighter environmental footprint.
“This will require improved science and new, innovative agricultural systems.
“This is the challenge and it presents both opportunities and responsibilities for our young graduates.”
The annual dinner, now in its 16th year, features leading primary industry figures who address graduates about issues affecting primary production in Australia and beyond.
This year the focus was on the importance of attracting young graduates to the agribusiness sector and highlighting the critical role they play in its future.
Bec Mickelborough from Glenmorgan, who graduated with a Bachelor of Agribusiness/Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Production), was presented with the Queensland Cotton Award for Excellence at the dinner.
Media: Associate Professor Tony Dunne (07 5460 1332) or Erin Pearl at the Faculty of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Veterinary Science (07 5460 1229).
