The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise ran the Opportunities in Food Careers Fair at its Loughry Campus in Cookstown. Nearly 30 organisations attended to discuss placements and graduate positions with students.

Dr Gillian Stevenson, senior lecturer at CAFRE, stated the careers programme builds employability skills and directs students to agri-food jobs. She added employers gained access to trained students, aiding their entry into the sector.

Julieanne Hardy, a first-year student on the BSc Honours Food Innovation Management course from Coagh, described the fair as useful for employer discussions and placement options. Leah Montgomery from Drumahoe, set to complete her BSc Honours Food Innovation and Nutrition degree this summer, said it allowed direct contact with firms offering graduate positions.

Clare Millar, senior lecturer, spoke with former student Lucy Stewart, a Level 3 and degree graduate now employed by Sillis Green Veg Ltd. Fintan McCann, head of food education at CAFRE, observed businesses presented entry-level jobs, inspiring students through industry conversations.

The agri-food sector forms a core part of the Northern Ireland economy and employs thousands. CAFRE's Loughry Campus runs food courses from apprenticeships to honours degrees. An open day takes place on Tuesday 10 March.