Agricultural science

In the last few weeks, a number of prospective university students have phoned me to enquire about opportunities available to those who wish to pursue a career in agricultural science. Contacts within the public service and various agro-industries clearly indicate that, at present, there is a very significant and real demand for agricultural scientists.

As we move towards a more science-based agriculture in the Maltese islands it is reasonable to expect a clear demand for a core of scientifically-trained persons who could help the policy-makers to draw up modern plans for rural development consistent with an appropriate environmental strategy and in accordance with principles of sustainability.

Moreover, as Malta edges its way towards Europe, the need for more agricultural scientists to deal with agricultural and rural matters precipitated by the integration of a common agricultural policy becomes more obvious.

Those students who have completed a university first degree course involving chemistry, biology or biochemistry could aspire to the status of an agricultural scientist by reading for the degree of M.Sc in agricultural sciences provided by the Institute of Agriculture of the University of Malta. Such a course opens in October and takes two years full-time or three years as a part-time evening course.

Those who are interested in this M.Sc course and require further information could e-mail ioa@um.edu.mt" or fax 21346519 or phone 23402322.