Industry support enhances food student potential at Loughry Campus

Date published: 16 March 2026

Mr Fintan McCann, Head of Food Education, welcomed attendees to the CAFRE Industry Support Programme presentation event at the Cookstown campus. In his address Mr McCann remarked: “The combined event reflects the integration of the supply chains across the land-based industries. Today we recognise the significant scale of financial support from our industry partners across our degree disciplines of Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture with an impressive £106,000 being awarded.”

As part of CAFRE’s Industry Support Programme, Food students benefitted from £35,500 of Bursary and Scholarship awards.  This substantial financial contribution from Agri‑Food sector businesses was assigned to students undertaking BSc Honours and Foundation Degree programmes validated by Ulster University, at Loughry Campus, Cookstown.

Food Bursary providers

Twelve companies presented Bursary awards to students which included Avondale Foods, Bank of Ireland, Dale Farm, Danske Bank, Fane Valley, Henderson Group, Kerry (Omagh), Lakeland Dairies, Leprino Foods, Mackle Petfoods, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association and Tyrone Farming Society. The first year Food degree students received a combined total of £18,000 in Bursary awards.

Supporting Food Scholarships

Additionally, seven second-year Food degree students secured Scholarship awards, with a combined value of £17,500. These were generously provided by Avondale Foods, Dunbia, Lakeland Dairies, Mackle Petfoods and Water Technology. The Scholarship competition combines a financial payment of £2,500 with the opportunity to complete a paid work placement year within the business.

In addressing the audience, Mr Paul McHenry, interim CAFRE Director commented: “The Agri-Food industry is a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy. It contributes significantly to the region’s productivity with total sales exceeding £6 billion per year with a workforce of over 113,000 staff.”

Highlighting the need for entrants to work in the Food industry, Mr McHenry remarked: “The United Nations estimates the global population is expected to approach 10 billion by 2050. With approximately 90% of its output destined for export markets, the Northern Ireland Agri‑Food sector is well positioned for continued growth and long‑term career opportunities. Ensuring sustainability, competitiveness, innovation and resilience across the industry will be essential to its future success. While significant challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, such challenges also bring new avenues for development. Equipped with the knowledge, skills and graduate attributes gained at CAFRE, students are well prepared to embark on rewarding careers within the Food industry.”

The Bursaries and Scholarships awarded offer students far more than financial support. By engaging with businesses early in their studies, students gain access to opportunities that enable them to realise their full potential, acquire invaluable industry experience, and contribute meaningfully to their career development.

“The generous support we receive from our industry partners better enables our students to focus on their studies, broaden their skills and ultimately, excel in their chosen fields. Today we thank our business sponsors for helping you reach your potential,” concluded Mr McHenry.

Interested in studying food?

The food industry needs fresh talent with food qualifications to enhance innovation and promote sustainability. If you, or someone you know thrives in a team environment, seeks a non-desk-bound career, enjoys practical problem-solving, values travel opportunities, and desires a challenging, yet rewarding career with promising job prospects, consider studying at Loughry Campus. The college offers full-time and part-time Food courses from Level 2 Apprenticeships through to BSc (Honours) Degree courses. There’s still time to apply for a course starting this September. For further information visit www.cafre.ac.uk