-
.
- Ελληνικά
It is with great pleasure that I am here tonight at the graduation ceremony of the Institute of Vocational Studies of UCLan Cyprus University as a sign of support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment to a remarkable educational institution that bridges education and industry, combining academic knowledge with technical vocational training.
The offering of the Diploma in Agriculture by the Institute of Vocational Studies, through the Faculty of Agriculture, has been established on the recommendation of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment. We are honoured that the Institute has made it a priority to provide the agricultural sector with graduates who can follow and develop good agricultural practices, evaluate and implement new techniques, instigate change where necessary and be able to contribute effectively to the development of this sector of the economy. Also, through the sound training provided by the Institute, they can understand the challenges and opportunities that arise in the modern agricultural sector with a strong emphasis on sustainability and the use of environmentally friendly methods and technologies.
Let me mention that, at this stage, the first call of Measure 3.1 "Support for new participations in quality schemes (PDO Halloumi)" is currently in force, where the total budget allocated under the first call is €500.000.1 "Investments that improve the overall performance and sustainability of agricultural and livestock holdings" and the second notice of the Scheme 6.1 "Support for the First Establishment of Young Farmers", with the receipt of applications completed on 5 September 2022. Once again, there was too much interest from our farmers, resulting in a large number of applications being received. 562 applications for Scheme 4.1 and 293 applications for Scheme 6.1 were received.
The great response had demonstrated that the initial budget of €31 million for Scheme 4.1 and €5 million for Scheme 6.1 was too small to meet demand. As a result, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, which is the Managing Authority of the Rural Development Programme, decided to allocate additional funds in order to fully meet the increased demand, thus contributing to the implementation of the business plans of our farmers and young people entering the profession.
Despite the very large number of applications and the complexity of the checks required to assess these applications, it was possible to start the approval process in July 2023, much earlier than originally planned.
The Government and the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment are very sensitive to the needs of the primary sector as well as to the environmental and other concerns of society to ensure opportunities and prospects for engagement and upgrading of the sector. With my presence here, I assure you that our Ministry will always be of assistance and at your disposal to support the efforts of those of you who decide to join the primary sector, to consult and respond to any difficulties that may arise.
In conclusion, allow me to address tonight's guests of honour.
Dear graduates,
The graduation ceremony is a highlight for every student, his/her family and loved ones, as the award of the degree marks the end of a very important cycle in their lives. With tonight's ceremony, all your efforts are rewarded.
This evening will be forever engraved in your memory, because today, as graduates, you will be able to face your future with the necessary skills. You know better than anyone how much effort and sacrifice it took to get here. My advice is to constantly strive to achieve your dreams and believe strongly in your potential. I wholeheartedly wish you every professional and personal success in your next steps.
Thank you.
(Mg)
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
Source
