Member for Central Wheatbelt Hon Mia Davies has congratulated the first crop of Muresk Institute students graduating with a Diploma of Agriculture saying the future of the sector was in good hands.
Ms Davies joined graduates, family, representatives from University of Queensland and key stakeholders on Wednesday to mark the significant milestone for students and the Institute.
“The five graduates were the first to sign up for the diploma course that was developed in collaboration with key industry, training and education partners and the University of Queensland,” Ms Davies said.
“It was wonderful to see them in their graduation robes ready to take the next step, all passionate about agriculture and its future.”
The two year course provide graduates with high level, industry-driven technical skills and a pathway either directly to industry or to higher education, which could include agricultural degree programs in both WA and selected universities in the Eastern States.
Ms Davies said the diploma program was just one of the strategies to create stronger links between the Muresk Institute and the agricultural industry, while cementing Muresk’s role as a multi-tenant, multi-functional facility.
“Royalties for Regions funding has made it possible for Muresk to remain a centre for agricultural excellence, broadening and adapting to the needs of the sector,” she said.
“Over $20 million has been invested in infrastructure and course development to rejuvenate this facility so we can continue to offer first class education and training in the Wheatbelt.”
The Diploma is presented by the University of Queensland and South Regional TAFE and developed specifically for Western Australian farming conditions.
It is a two year program to prepare the graduate for work in agricultural production and management, rural merchandising, technical advisory roles and research and development.
“The students all appreciated the hands-on farm experience and practical elements of the course and I was impressed with their enthusiasm for the opportunities they see in the sector,” Ms Davies said.
For media enquiries please contact Mia Davies on 08 9041 1702 (Merredin office), 08 9622 2871 (Northam office) or email mia.davies@mp.wa.gov.au.
2016 Muresk Institute Diploma of Agriculture graduates.
