Industry backing for CAFRE students

Date published: 9 March 2026

On speaking at the Industry Support Programme event, Paul McHenry, interim CAFRE Director commented: “We come together to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of our industry partners in supporting the education and professional development of CAFRE students; the future leaders of the Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture sectors.”

“The commitment from our industry partners to fostering academic excellence and professional development has made a significant impact on the lives of our students over the years. The partnership between industry and CAFRE is one we value immensely, and it stands as a powerful example of what meaningful collaboration can achieve. By working closely with our industry partners, we ensure that our students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to excel in an ever-evolving sector. 

“Importantly, the bursaries and scholarships offered provide far more than financial support; they open doors for students to fulfil their potential, gain invaluable real-world experience, and positively contribute to the future of the industry. This continued support enables our students to stay focused on their studies, broaden their skillsets and ultimately thrive in their chosen careers,” said Mr McHenry.

Industry Bursary Awards

Fifty-four Bursary Awards were presented to CAFRE Higher Education students, with a total value of £81,000. Many award recipients shared that they intend to use the funding to help offset their educational expenses, easing the financial pressures often associated with higher level study. Others expressed plans to invest the money in travel opportunities that will enrich their learning, broaden their horizons and strengthen their employment prospects upon graduation.

Industry Scholarship Awards

Ten Scholarships, with a value of £2,500 each, were on offer to Honours Degree students which include the opportunity to undertake a paid work placement year with the sponsor. These scholarships offer students an excellent opportunity to engage directly with companies and showcase their emerging career potential. Following their work placements, many CAFRE students return with the prospect of being considered for permanent roles after graduation. 

As part of the application process, students were required to create a video demonstrating their suitability for the award, with several businesses also conducting interviews before final decisions were made. The experience proved both inspiring and rewarding, benefiting students and sponsors alike.

The CAFRE Industry Support Programme was hosted at Loughry Campus and attended by Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture recipients, family, friends and their sponsors. The presentation event provided sponsors with the chance to meet and interact directly with the finalists, reinforcing the students’ passion for their industry.

Agriculture Bursary and Scholarship providers included; Abbey Autoline, ABP Food Group, AI Services, Bank of Ireland, Calor Gas Ltd, Dairy Council for NI, Dale Farm, Danske Bank, Fane Valley, Fane Valley Stores, Genus ABS, Gibson Trust, Irish Farmers Journal, John Thompson and Sons Ltd, Lakeland Dairies, Lantra, Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), National Sheep Association NI, Pilgrim’s Europe, Tyrone Farming Society, Ulster Farmers' Union, Ulster Grassland Society and Yara.

Equine Bursary providers included Coolmore Stud, Danske Bank, Derrinstown Stud, Downpatrick Racecourse, Gerry Dilger Foundation, Godolphin, Horse Racing Ireland, Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Juddmonte Ireland, Pearse Lyons Ace Foundation, Show Jumping Ireland, The Irish Field, The Vaughan Trust, Tinnakill House Stud, Tyrone Farming Society and Ulster Carpets.

Food Bursaries and Scholarships were provided by; Avondale Foods, Bank of Ireland, Dale Farm, Danske Bank, Dunbia, Fane Valley, Henderson Group, Kerry- Omagh, Lakeland Dairies, Leprino Foods, Mackle Petfoods, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Assocation, Tyrone Farming Society and Water Technology.

Businesses supporting Horticulture included Bulrush, Gibson Trust, Idverde, Royal Ulster Agriculture Society (RUAS), and the Ulster Farmers’ Union.

Those in attendance heard: “The Agriculture, Food and Horticulture industries are a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy with the Equine sector operating on an all-island basis offering a vibrant and growing area,” commented Mr McHenry.

Promoting sustainability, competitiveness, innovation and resilience across the agri-food and land-based sector is essential to its long-term success. Thanks to the commitment of organisations investing in the next generation of leaders, through Bursary and Scholarship awards CAFRE students can look forward to a bright and promising future.

If you, or someone you know is interested in a career in the agri-food or land-based sectors encourage them to discover courses at CAFRE. Higher Education programmes at CAFRE are validated by Ulster University and offer vocational qualifications that lead to career success. For more information, please visit the CAFRE website.