Poultry Hub Australia (PHA) partnered with the University of New England (UNE) to offer an exciting opportunity for primary and secondary students to engage in hands-on STEM activities. The initiative allowed students to gain a behind-the-scenes look at the cutting-edge research and education taking place in university laboratories, guided by scientists at the forefront of the poultry industry.
This year, PHA hosted a series of dynamic workshops at the UNE Armidale campus, where students explored various aspects of the poultry industry, from egg and chicken biology to career opportunities in the field. They also participated in practical egg quality testing, gaining valuable insights into the science and technology that drive the industry. Over two days, the event welcomed 466 primary school students, 356 high school students, and 55 teachers from Northern New South Wales and Southern Queensland. PHA hosted 120 students across four engaging sessions, where the young participants demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm and posed thoughtful questions about both egg and meat production.
The following week, PHA hosted another series of workshops, this time for students from low socio-economic areas in the New England and North West regions. The goal was to inspire these students by showcasing the diverse career opportunities in the STEM fields and the vital role the poultry industry plays in fostering a nurturing, innovative environment for future professionals. Many students had not previously considered a career in poultry or agricultural sciences, and the workshops provided an eye-opening opportunity to explore these potential pathways.
Through these events, PHA and UNE not only sparked curiosity and excitement about STEM careers but also emphasized the importance of the poultry industry in supporting both local communities and global food security. The workshops were a great success, helping to broaden students’ perspectives on career possibilities and highlighting the many rewarding roles within the poultry sector.
-Carissa Anderson
