Applications for Nuffield Farming Scholarships Now Open

Applications are open for the 2008 New Zealand Nuffield Farming Scholarships. Farmers have until 2pm on August 29 to apply for New Zealand's most prestigious farming award.

Nuffield Farming Scholarships promote leadership and the implementation of innovative practices in agriculture through worldwide study and networking. The scholarships give successful applicants the opportunity to develop a better understanding of New Zealand and international relationships by studying farming, agricultural marketing or agricultural organisational practices.

Normally two or three scholarships are awarded each year, giving winners the opportunity to travel overseas to study the latest agricultural developments, and meet leaders and decision makers not accessible to the ordinary traveller.

Nuffield Farming Scholarships have been offered to innovative New Zealand farmers for more than 50 years. Past scholars include government ministers, agri-business directors, and industry and community leaders.

Scholarships are for approximately six months, and include two weeks in Asia and six weeks in Europe or North America depending on the scholarship offered. Study in other regions will also be considered.

Scholarship applicants must demonstrate an ability and desire to participate in leadership in agriculture and the wider rural community.

The New Zealand Nuffield Farming Scholarship Trust thanks the funding support of DairyNZ, Rabobank, Mackenzie Charitable Foundation, Meat & Wool New Zealand, Mid-Canterbury Farmers Charitable Trust, Landcorp Farming Ltd, Farmers Mutual Group, Foundation for Arable Research, and Federated Farmers of New Zealand.

Applications for 2008 scholarships close Friday, August 29 at 2pm. Those interested in applying should visit www.nuffield.org.nz or email: nuffield@fedfarm.org.nz