The merger between these two agricultural educational organisations makes sense, but Prof Keith Woodford in his blog does raise some concerns.
If this allows the merged organisation to properly fund agricultures staff resources, and allow the University to again rekindle grassroots farmer linkages that have been lost through poor investment in extension and research over the past years, then this merger will be valuable.
I have concerns associated with the myriad of courses that polytechs provide, which often seem to be created to attract funding, rather than provide quality education. Agriculture is too important for the NZ economy to be "dumbed down".
The skills of the top young people should be the benchmark, as often seen in the Young Farmer of the Year competition, so that Agriculture is highly rated by all, as a valued business choice.
A merger between Lincoln University and Telford Rural Polytechnic has today been given the green light to proceed. The Minister for Tertiary Education, Hon Steven Joyce, advised that Cabinet has approved the merger, following months of planning and public consultation. The merger supports a direction signalled by the Councils of both Lincoln University and Telford Rural Polytechnic to develop a model of strong collaboration in education and research to support land-based industries.
Lincoln University Chancellor Mr. Tom Lambie says “The merger offers many new possibilities in training for land-based industries, and it will result in vertical integration to encompass all aspects of the agricultural and land-based sector provision and supply chain, from secondary school, sub-degree and undergraduate teaching to postgraduate research, commercialisation and extension activities with industry.”
Mr. Lambie says the merger complements existing partnerships the University already has in place. Lincoln University will continue to enhance its Partnership for Excellence relationship with Massey University and relevant industry partners, whilst further developing its partnership with AgResearch Ltd and its relationship with Ngai Tahu.
Chair of Council of Telford Rural Polytechnic, Mr David Yardley says the merger gives both institutions many new options. “Together, we have the potential to generate a more co-ordinated and integrated land-based education, in keeping with national education strategies and goals.” The merger will take effect on 1 January, 2011.
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