2025 FINALISTS

bALLYMENA ACADEMY

The role of genetics in increasing sustainability and profitability on farm

The team will be raising awareness amongst the local farming community of the importance of selecting the correct genetics. Highlighting research findings that are available on the science behind breeding for carcass weight and earlier age of finishing and guidance on when selecting Dairy Beef bulls will be important to this. They also intend to show the school and local community the science behind cattle breeding for a sustainable beef industry.

blessed trinity college

Communicating trust and understanding of Northern Irish beef within urban communities

This team will utilise their inner Belfast location to achieve a better understanding of the high standards that are behind how NI beef is produced; working on improving transparency between producers and consumers on the farm to fork journey of Angus beef. They want to convey the dedication and science behind rearing cattle in Northern Ireland.

ST PATRICK’S COLLEGE DUNGANNON

The value of Northern Irish grazing systems

This team will be highlighting how an early finishing breed like Aberdeen Angus is suited to a grass-based diet. They’ll be informing local farmers of the practical real-life examples of nitrate reduction to maintain water quality. Portraying how grass can help sustain food security in Northern Ireland eliminating the need for imported feed will also be a focus of their work.

ST PATRICK’S HIGH SCHOOL KEADY

How technology can aid in achieving a gender equal agricultural industry

This team will be exploring technological advancements in agriculture as well as highlighting succession pathways and options for farming to become more accessible to all. They want to educate young people on farming as a career. By speaking to women agri-leaders regarding policy and funding they want to shine a light on generation renewal in Northern Ireland farming.