THE MAKING OF FARMERS.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXXI, Issue 15333, 16 June 1910, Page 6

THE MAKING OF FARMERS.

The annual report submitted to the Governors of the Lincoln Agricultural College shows that tho institution under their charge is continuing to do excellent work. The College has a reputation for efficiency that extends far beyond the borders of the Canterbury province, and the fact that it is maintained largely from provincial endowments has not prevented it being used by youths from all parts of New Zealand and even from Australia. It provides a sound and practical education in agricultural and pastoral pursuits, and it has assisted a great many farmers to understand the close relation that exists between scientific methods and commercial success. At the end of last year twenty-four students left tho College, after various periods of tuition, and as far as tho institution itself is concerned tho number is a satisfactory indication of the progress it is making. It is not, however, by any means a proof that the dominion is doing all it should do for agricultural education. , There is room for half-a-dozon agricultural colleges in different parts of the country, and while it would perhaps bo impracticable to provide this form of education without charge, the fees might be considerably reduced by somo substantial assistance from the State. Tho Hon T. Mackenzie has already displayed a very keen interest in this subject, nnd wo hope that he and his colleagues will bo able at no distant date to make provision for tho training in. farming pursuits of many hundreds of youths. An education system which helps young people to bccomo carpenters and plumbers and clerks should not neglect tho interests of tlioso who wish to make their way in tho most important industry tho dominion will evor possess.