Professor of Agriculture Jim Pratley will draw on his lengthy experience in agricultural education at Charles Sturt University (CSU) as he leads a review of education and training in the NSW rural sector.

 

The NSW Government has appointed Professor Pratley to conduct the year-long independent Review of Agricultural Education and Training.

 

Professor Pratley has been a strong advocate for change to redress the decline in agricultural graduates from Australian universities to overcome the current skills shortage.

 

Professor Pratley is a Research Professor of Agriculture in the School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences at CSU. He is Secretary of the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture and was Foundation Dean of Science and Agriculture at CSU from 1990 until 2006.

 

 “We know the extent of the challenge,” Professor Pratley said. “The important point is what we do about it. This review will evaluate what is happening in NSW in agricultural education and training at all levels and how well positioned the state is to address the challenge in this most important industry for NSW and the nation.”

 

Professor Pratley is due to report to the Minister for Education and Minister for Primary Industries by 30 June 2013. The terms of reference for the review can be found here.  

 

Read more about Professor Pratley on CSU News here.