The first group of students have graduated from the inaugural Integrated Diploma Program, delivered at Muresk Institute, strengthening agricultural skills development in Western Australia.
Muresk Institute acting general manager John Smoker said the two year course provided graduates with high level industry driven technical skills.
“This first group of students are ready to start work, having gained skills and practical, hands on experience to help them establish a solid career in the agricultural sector,” he said.
“The response from industry to the Diploma course has been extremely positive, with employers already looking for graduates to fill a range of roles, including an agronomist and technical officer.
“The Diploma is becoming a key enabler for the growth of agricultural skills development in WA, while also providing a stronger future for Muresk.”
Delivered by the University of Queensland, the Diploma was developed in collaboration with key industry, training and education partners, specifically for WA farming conditions.
“The course is generating a lot of interest, with students from various regions of WA having already enrolled for next year.”
- Muresk acting general manager John Smoker
Mr Smoker said the Diploma provides graduates with skills to work in a range of areas, such as agricultural production and management, rural merchandising, technical advisory roles, and research and development.
“The program is now in its second year of delivery, providing a clear pathway for graduates into paid work or to other university degree programs,” he said.
“The course is generating a lot of interest, with students from various regions of WA having already enrolled for next year.”
Mr Smoker said a lot of work had been done towards re-establishing Muresk Institute as a centre of specialisation and improving the perception of agriculture and agribusiness careers.
“This work has been made possible by a $10 million investment through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program, under the Seizing the Opportunity Agriculture initiative,” he said.
“Through this initiative, we are delivering training and higher education programs to build a skilled workforce that has the knowledge and technical expertise to meet industry needs.”