Empowering Future Leaders in Agribusiness: CQUniversity’s Gateway Project

The future of agribusiness is receiving a significant boost through classroom initiatives, aimed at inspiring a new generation of leaders in this critical industry. The Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Project at CQUniversity is connecting secondary students with farmers, agri-tech experts, and real-world learning experiences to illuminate pathways into agriculture-related careers.

Program Details and Financial Support

This initiative marks the second offering of the program, following a successful launch in 2025 that saw enthusiastic participation from various schools. Each selected school will benefit from $2,500 to develop new resources, build networks, and create opportunities aimed at enhancing agribusiness education.

Moreover, recipients of the funding will gain access to CQUniversity’s support team for an entire year, facilitating a range of connections, events, and activities in collaboration with Queensland’s agricultural sector. Schools can apply until November 3, with announcements for successful applicants scheduled for November 21, and participation set to commence in 2026.

Interested parties can learn more and apply through the Agribusiness Gateway website.

Previous Participants Speak Out

Last year, 15 schools participated in this annual program, which provided specialized support and training for teachers to incorporate agriculture into their curricula while forming lasting partnerships with local agricultural industries.

Bundaberg North State High School was one such participant. Teacher Tanya Derriman expressed that the program has been transformative for her students’ career aspirations.

“It’s vital for students to engage with industry and understand the opportunities available locally,” Derriman stated. “Experiencing the technology-driven nature of agriculture firsthand allows them to envision viable career paths. The connections facilitated by CQUniversity have been invaluable in expanding those opportunities.”

A Vision for the Future

The Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Project is spearheaded by CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team, which specializes in projects designed to raise interest and engagement within the agricultural domain.

Professor Amy Cosby, Interim Director for CQUniversity’s Institute for Future Farming Systems, shared her excitement about the program’s expansion across Queensland.

“Our proven track record of collaborating with both industry and educational institutions positions us to supercharge opportunities within the sector,” Professor Cosby remarked. “This collaboration enables us to design innovative solutions to ensure the ongoing adaptability and success of agriculture in the future.”

The Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Schools Project is a collaborative effort managed by CQUniversity and funded by the Queensland Government through the Department of Trade, Employment and Training, in partnership with AgriFutures Australia, the Queensland Agriculture Teachers Association, and the AgForce School to Industry Partnership Program.

Source: CQ University.