Agricultural learning while socially distancing

A record 59 schools will take part in the 2020 Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Program (AGISP) using e-technologies that will give them access to the most up to date practices in agriculture.

AGISP is a partnership between schools, training providers, universities and industry, which helps young people move from school into further education or employment.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner acknowledged that in the current health environment, we had to be creative and innovative when giving students access to agriculture learnings online.

"The program has more than 30 mentors available to assist participating schools with advice on science, biosecurity, animal husbandry and setting up a farm. In the immediate future, schools will be supported through online e-technologies.

"Earlier this year, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT), significantly increased its funding by $100,000 to $255,000 per year.

"Small Grants of up to $5,000, for schools participating in AGISP, are available as a competitive process. Given the impacts of COVID-19, applications are extended to 24 April, 2020.

"To be eligible for the grants, schools must put forward project proposals that meet the interests of their students and the needs of agriculture within their local area.

"Projects should involve students in aspects of the agricultural supply chain, including cropping, animal husbandry, data analysis, research, logistics, marketing and business management."

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman welcomed the expansion of the program.

"Making sure our young Queenslanders can undertake hands on training while they're still at school will set them up for a bright future," Ms Fentiman said.

"This is a program that gives students a taste of an industry and links them with industry, giving them a head start in their careers."

Mr Furner said past participants in AGISP had often gone on to further study or work in agriculture-related industries.

"This year's record number of applicants shows just how committed our schools are to providing quality agricultural educational opportunities for young Queenslanders," Mr Furner said.

Schools taking part in the 2020 AGISP:

AGISP is funded by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) and administered by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).