MASSEY COLLEGE WORK

Taranaki Daily News, 17 June 1932, Page 9

MASSEY COLLEGE WORK

PROGRESS WITH RESEARCH.

APPRECIATION OF ACTIVITIES. In the course of his address at the annual graduation ceremony of Massey Agricultural College, Sir George Fowlds, chairman of the college council, said the year had been a difficult one for the college, as it had been for the country. The Government had been compelled to reduce the amount of money available, to the college. It was a matter for rejoicing that all courses, excepting herd testing, had shown an increase in enrolments. Altogether, there were 185 students. Very considerable progress had been made in research work.

“We feel gratified at the increase in the number of students, some of whom are younger brothers of those who passed through the college in its early days,” said Sir George. “It is a recognition of the value of the work being done and a tribute to the students who passed through earlier. There is a growing recognition of the value of science in agriculture. It is a matter for regret that the college has had to face an economic visitation so early in its history, as it would have been more consolidated if given another five or ten years.” Very considerable research results had been obtained. Members of the staff were doing their best in spite of the economic position. Cutting down was felt to be uneconomic, but cuts had been made. “I believe the college has already become appreciated by the community, and is recognised as one of the principal colleges of the Dominion,” he concluded. “Sir George Fowlds has referred to the depression through which we are passing, but we have passed through others,” said Professor T. A. Hunter. “In the 19th century, it had been thought that the British Empire had come to au end, but the end of the century marked a period of unparalleled application of new ideas to old problems. We must keep our minds open to these uew ideas and develop a sympathetic outlook.” Professor Hunter - urged the college to adopt a high standard of ideals in research work, stressing the importance that such ideals be not lost during the depression. “There are a great many things this country can afford to lose before higher education. The college owes a great deal to Sir George Fowlds. I hope he will direct the efforts to continue research work. It is important that when we come to a farming community we shall have something to give them.”