WINNIPEG – University of Manitoba Aggies now have the chance to get a good tan, work on their Spanish and improve their job prospects at the same time.
The faculty is working with five other universities in North America on an international exchange program. Over the next three years, seven agriculture students from the university will spend a semester studying at another school and working with an agricultural business.
The other participants include Laval University in Quebec City, Kansas State University, Purdue University in Indiana and two universities in Mexico. The program is the first of its kind for agriculture students, according to Daryl Kraft.
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Kraft, who teaches agricultural economics at the University of Manitoba, said the idea started at Kansas State University.
“We think it’s an excellent opportunity for our students to learn another culture, to gain some proficiency in a second language, as well as begin to understand the agriculture economy within that particular jurisdiction,” Kraft said.
“And given that background, I think they should improve their prospects of employment, given that Manitoba agriculture is so dependent upon trade.”
Kraft said the program is open to first, second and third-year students. The faculty will give students more details after the Christmas break.
The university will also welcome a student from Mexico in May. Kraft said the student will take a couple of classes and work with a Winnipeg business that trades with Mexico.
The federal human resources development department is helping pay for the program.
Staff from the universities will also be able to work together on courses and research.
