Two scholarships for agriculture students

Farmers’ Mutual Group is once again offering two school leavers the chance to make their mark via the FMG Agriculture Scholarship programme.

This year two applicants will be granted $5000 towards their halls of residence or living costs for their first year of university, and another $5000 towards their course fees over each of the remaining years of their undergraduate degree at Massey, Waikato or Lincoln University.

“School leavers are starting to decide what study they’re jumping into next year. We want to put the spotlight on the agricultural industry as a career option and support those enrolling in agricultural degrees,” chief client officer Andrea Brunner said.

“The agriculture sector is often over-represented as your old-school, Fred Dagg and muddy gumboots kind of profession, but in reality it’s fast becoming one of the most innovative and diverse industries in the country.”

A career in agriculture could involved anything from farm and businesses management, science and technology, sales and food production, land and property management, commerce and communications, sustainability and environmental management, animal health, veterinary science and research.

“New Zealand is one of the best producers of food and fibre in the world, and you don’t get to that position without having skilled people behind it,” Ms Brunner added.

FMG, which since 2009 had helped 37 students through their tertiary studies, strongly believed that part of supporting future young leaders was giving them a financial leg up to help them achieve their goals a little faster, without the additional stress of a large debt.

Applications, closing October 31, require information about personal aspirations, agricultural interests, and an essay on an industry topic. More information, and the application form, can be found at www.fmg.co.nz/ scholarships