Merger Could Provide Major Boost For Agriculture
March 16th, 2009
AgResearch and Lincoln University have announced plans to investigate a merger of the two institutions which, if approved by the Govt, could happen as early as July. The new institute – under the name and brand of Lincoln University – would have combined assets of about $485m and annual revenue of $230m. The backers say the move will create one of the world’s top five agricultural universities and play a vital role in enhancing NZ’s agricultural sector. The merger would have the potential to add $1bn to NZ’s economy every year.
Better support for agriculture. AgResearch CEO, Dr Andrew West, says the idea has been in the pipeline for four months. “It’s bold, but that’s what this country needs.” The key aim is to improve support for NZ’s pastoral industry. “That’s important because the only way out of the financial crisis is to earn our way out.” Under the merger plan AgResearch scientists would be involved in teaching and become professors as part of the deal. In return, they would have access to Lincoln’s post-graduate students for research.
Minister enthusiastic. David Carter is enthusiastic about the merger saying it provides a “quantum leap forward” for the research capabilities. He believes the combination will allow a greater intermingling of scientists and students. Lincoln has stolen the march on Massey and Waikato universities, which are “no longer as attuned to a lot of the disciplines” of agricultural science. However, he also has some concerns warning some work will be required to combine the cultures of AgResearch and Lincoln. “Universities have enjoyed substantial freedom from Government edicts whereas CRIs have had significant direction.”
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