Academics from a variety of institutions in the Philippines attended a short course to learn about New Zealand’s dairy production systems.
The short course the group attended was coordinated by Massey’s Te Tumu Whakatipu short courses team and sponsored by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines. A number of academic staff from the School of Agriculture and Environment facilitated the hands-on learning.
Participants met with industry organisations and Massey staff on the Manawatū campus to discuss biosecurity, pasture growth, feed supply, animal breeding, environmental sustainability and climate impact in livestock production systems. Through lectures, field visits and hands-on activities, participants were able to compare New Zealand's pasture based system to the Philippines' dairy practices.
Te Tumu Whakatipu Associate Director Business Development Cara Jacoby says the course provided a platform for intellectual exchange and innovation, ensuring participants returned to the Philippines with the skills and knowledge to help transform their dairy industry.
“The engaging discussions that took place throughout the course will undoubtedly spark new ideas and foster lasting connections. The presence of these participants in Aotearoa New Zealand also enriches our community and we hope this course will be a catalyst for future collaborations and research partnerships so we can continue to strengthen the newly formed bonds created over the past two weeks.”
According to Senior Lecturer in Animal Science Dr Amelia Almeida, the participants were very enthusiastic and engaged.
“Coming from Brazil, I understand first-hand how important this development opportunity is for the participants. Engaging with this cohort did not feel like work and being involved in the course was one of the most rewarding experiences of the year for me.”
Participants spent time at Massey Farms and AgResearch while completing six modules of learning including dairy production systems and supply chain, pasture growth and grazing management, feed supply, genetics and reproduction, sustainability and climate impact. The participants also travelled to Wellington and visited Parliament, Te Papa and Zealandia.
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