Short Farming Courses Wanted By Y.F.C.

Press, Volume C, Issue 29563, 12 July 1961, Page 20

Short Farming Courses Wanted By Y.F.C.

When the executive of Young Farmers’ Clubs asks the Government to provide for more short courses in farming, it will have the support of the board of governors of Canterbury Agricultural College. The board’s views were sought yesterday by Mr P. G Morrison, a representative at the dubs’ executive.

“At present the Government provides funds for other studies,” Mr Morrison ■ said. “It apparently thinks young farmers in the country don’t need these facilities. We feel the principle of that Is wrong.” Mr Morrison said his organisation was looking at farming in terms of the future. “It is becoming a big business. We feel that in future, fanners will have to learn more.” he said.

Dr. M. M Burns, prineipa’ of the college, said lack o< finance, staff, and resident’ll accommodation were main difficulties in pro’nd’nc more short courses. Staff had e narticularly heaw programme of extra-mural activities. The college had unsuccessfullv asked the Council for Adult Education for funds for short courses. Dr. Burns raid.

‘TTjere can be no change until there are grants for adult education at the college. I don’t agree that short courses should come under that heading,” he added. “Funds Main Problem” Funds were the main problem. said Mr D. W. Bain. “The mechanics of running short courses would be simple and straightforward once funds became available," he said. « He said he favoured the idea of the executive making the approach to the Government. “Our approach would be restricted to the University Grants Committee. The executive can explore all avenues.”

Dr. A. Henderson, a member of the college staff, described the likelihood of running more short courses as “virtually incompatible." “These courses are the most

difficult we have. You have to press into two or three weeks a general outline of the subject,” he said. "This takes senior men with a wide view of agriculture. “The grants committee will say this is an inefficient use of academic material. Effect on Research “Also, if you want senioi men to do this work, are we going to have any research programmes?” Dr. Henderson said.

Courses conducted by representatives of boards associated with agriculture were suggested by Mr H. J Walker, M.P. “That would be a conference sort of thing, and not altogether a course.” Dr Henderson commented. The views expressed during the discussion would be given to the executive to help its reouest to the Government, the board agreed The college has five courses in the current year's curriculum. Four courses are in welding, and one in general farming.

The farming course lasts three weeks and includes the study of soils, fertilisers agricultural botanv. breeds of sheep, cattle, and pigs, elementary anatomy and phvsiolocv of farm animals, farm machinery and economics. The fees total £22.