Syngenta connects with next generation of agricultural leaders

The Syngenta Connections program, the first of its kind in Asia-Pacific, seeks to engage and inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders by giving participants the opportunity to learn about different farming practices and challenges, in collaboration with universities, institutions, growers and local organisations.  Syngenta Connections also provide participants with an opportunity to apply their skills and insights while developing their leadership capabilities. 

Through the program, agriculture students from across Asia-Pacific are selected to participate in a two-week immersive study tour.  Over the course of the study tour, the Syngenta Connections participants attend lectures, field trips and meet with growers to gain insight into the current state of agriculture and learn about the role stakeholders, including agribusinesses, governments and NGOs, play in supporting farmers and improving food security in the region.

The students are also tasked with exploring the constraints facing smallholder farmers and developing a real-world solution that addresses an identified challenge.  With guidance and technical advice from mentors, the students develop their project ideas and present their concepts to a judging panel of industry representatives.  The winning solution is awarded $2,000 from Syngenta, which is invested in supporting the implementation of the project idea. 

The 2017 Syngenta Connections program brought together the largest cohort to date, with 26 students from eight countries across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam. 

From New Zealand, Sarah Butters (an agricultural science student from Lincoln University), and Kieran McCahon (an agricultural science student from Massey University), were selected as the participants following a nomination and interview process.

Since its launch in 2010, 70 Australasian agriculture students have participated in the Syngenta Connections program.

The Syngenta Connections program is implemented in collaboration with industry partners, including Rimfire Resources, USAID and Winrock International.

For more information contact Syngenta on 0800 333 336.