Agri Aware launches equine models for transition-year students
The modules will be used as a key educational resource for transition-year students across Ireland this September, to help them to learn more about the equine and agri-food industries.
They will be the first in a series of agri-food educational modules to be delivered for transition-year students across Ireland.
The Irish equine industry forms an integral component of the Irish agricultural sector, contributing €1bn annually to the economy and employing about 16,000 people.
Agri Aware chairman Bernard Donohue predicted that these modules will instil a knowledge and interest in students that will have long-term benefits, not only for the equine industry, but for the wider economy.
“These second-level students will be better equipped to enhance the world-class reputation of the Irish equine industry,” he said.
Agri Aware executive director Dr Vanessa Woods said it will work with its 70 patrons in delivering the transition-year modules and the new syllabus, to ensure that future industry leaders have top-class knowledge and understanding of the hugely important equine and agri-food sectors.
“This is the first time that Agri Aware has worked in the equine area since its establishment in 1996 and I am hugely excited about our new venture. This is also the first time that Agri Aware has delivered modules for transition-year students,” she said.
Horse Sport Ireland chairman Professor Paddy Wall, a board member of Agri Aware, described the move as a brilliant idea as there is intense competition between a vast array of sporting and leisure activities for the attention of the youth.
“An investment in the youth is an investment in the future of the equine sector and they are the ammunition that will bring both the thoroughbred and sports horse industries to the next level.
“Encouraging an interest in horses will get them out in the fresh air and provide great fun and enjoyment and it’s something families can do together, either as spectators or participants.
“We have fantastic talented young people in Ireland and their positivity and enthusiasm will contribute to making Ireland truly the land of the horse and the go-to place for all types of horses,” he said.
Horse Racing Ireland chief executive Brian Kavanagh said the equine modules are a wonderful initiative which it is happy to support.
The initiative is a collaboration between Agri Aware, the Irish Agricultural Science Teachers’ Association and the Irish Farmers’ Journal.
Ireland is the fourth largest producer of thoroughbred foals in the world. A total of 4,844 horses are exported annually to over 37 countries (value €205.4m).
