Chance for young to explore rural option

Young people will get the chance to explore career opportunities in the rural sector next month.

New Zealand Young Farmers will host Get Ahead Careers Days in Oamaru on March 5 and Christchurch on March 13 in partnership with sector groups, in a bid to highlight the options available to young people.

''Despite higher-than-average starting salaries and great career trajectories, fewer young people are choosing agriculture as a career.

"It's no secret the primary industry is struggling to find skilled and capable workers,'' New Zealand Young Farmers communications co-ordinator Chelsea Blair said.

The Get Ahead programme is focused on promoting career opportunities in the primary industry, showcasing on-farm, business and science-related career opportunities.

More than 1000 students attend events throughout the country each year.

''The primary sector often goes unnoticed as a viable career path for many young people, even though it is one of the most lucrative industries in the country,'' Ms Blair said.

The Get Ahead Careers Days will be held at Totara Estate, Oamaru, on Wednesday, March 5, and at the Canterbury Agricultural Park, Christchurch, on Thursday, March 13, both at 9am.

- David Hill 

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