Record number of teams at 2023 ABP Angus Youth Exhibition

How to overcome barriers to young people taking up farming; the farmer’s part in protecting the environment and biodiversity; and future trends for beef were just some of the ideas and interests displayed by teenagers competing at this year’s ABP Angus Youth Challenge Exhibition at the Logan Hall, Balmoral Park.

31 school teams comprising over 100 Yr. 11 pupils had to pitch their ideas and knowledge of farming and beef production in the hope of being one of four finalist teams to win their own mini herd of Angus cross calves compliments of ABP and Certified Irish Angus.

A broad cross section of urban and rural post primary schools took part. Common to all was the task of having to convince a judging panel of agri-food industry and education representatives that they should be the participants in the next ABP Angus Youth finalist skills development programme.

Commenting on this year’s event, George Mullan, Managing Director of ABP in Northern Ireland said, “We are delighted to see such a range of young people from all over the province taking part from both urban and rural communities. Northern Ireland’s agrifood sector offers ambitious teenagers a range of employment opportunities. The ABP Angus Youth Challenge is their chance to share their interests and views on agriculture and food production and connect with ABP and other representatives in our industry.”

Final Four for 2024 Announced

Pupils from Aughnacloy College, Dromore High School, St. Colmcille’s High School, Crossgar and the Royal School Armagh are celebrating the success of becoming our 2023-2024 ABP Angus Youth Challenge Finalists. Each finalist team will receive a mini herd of Angus cross calves to rear courtesy of the beef processor ABP and the Certified Irish Angus Producer Group and then get to pocket the proceeds when they sell their finished cattle to ABP at the end of next year.

During the year-long skills development experience the finalists will research and put into practice sustainable beef production with the support of a College of Agriculture Food Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) advisor. The pupils, who are all in Yr. 11, will also benefit from travel and training opportunities to prepare them for the world of work.

Each team has been assigned sustainability projects relevant to ABP’s beef supply chain:

Dromore High School: Promoting Diversity in the beef supply chain

Aughnacloy College: Creating a vibrant farming culture for future generations

St. Colmcille’s High School, Crossgar: Informing consumers about sustainable beef production

The Royal School Armagh: Increasing the efficiency of Northern Irish beef production

 31 teams competed for a place in the final. How the final four bring their projects to life within their school and local community will be continually assessed during the coming year. At the end of the process, one overall team will win £1,000 for their school or club/society. Congratulating the pupils, George Mullan, Managing Director of ABP in Northern Ireland said,  “We are thrilled to see how this talented group of teenagers raise the profile of sustainable food production through their school and in the community. The ABP Angus Youth Challenge is an important part of our education outreach. By encouraging innovation and rewarding achievements, it is inspiring ambitious young people to considering employment in our sector. They are the future of our industry and this initiative shines a light on the great variety of roles that Northern Irish agrifood can offer them. ”

 

Follow their journey on Instagram and Facebook #ABPAngusYouth