32 firms attend agri-industry event at Ballyhaise College
The inaugural Agricultural Industry Open Night at Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College in Co. Cavan took place on Tuesday, February 11.
The event was organised by the current part-time Green Cert class, who began their programme in September 2024 with the help of education officers at Teagasc Ballyhaise, Fergal Bradley and Aileen McCarron.
Speaking to Agriland, Teagasc's Fergal Bradley said: "As part of completing the Green Cert, every student must complete a Level 5 communications module. It was within this module, that the event idea was developed and was seamlessly integrated into the students' assignments for the module.
"This initiative provided students with an opportunity to develop skills, including teamwork, communication, collaboration, and interpersonal abilities."
The event was well attended by current and past students, as well as farmers and agri-industry personnel.
Representatives from agri-supply companies, as well as farm service providers, organisations, and businesses linked to agriculture were present on the night to meet attendees to discuss the services they provide to the agri sector.
With a total of 32 businesses relating to agriculture exhibiting at the event, Bradley said: "The event served as a platform for promoting ideas, networking, and creating a space for attendees to share questions and experiences, explore career opportunities, and gain insights into the latest innovations in the agricultural sector.
"Additionally, the event provided valuable information to help participants make informed decisions regarding their personal and professional growth."
Ballyhaise College principal John Kelly said: "The open night was a great success, receiving positive feedback from attendees.
"Valuable networking and knowledge transfer took place throughout the evening, fostering meaningful connections between participants and organisations. The event was well attended by current and past students from both Teagasc Ballyhaise and Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT)."
The Ballyhaise College principal congratulated the students in the part-time group who "meticulously prepared for the event" and said: "I believe they gained invaluable skills and insights throughout the process."
He expressed his thanks to all organisations who "dedicated their time and effort to join on the night, as well as to all the attendees who visited and contributed to the event's success."
