Minister Zeichner Highlights Industry Partnerships at UK Agri-Tech Centre's Innovation Hub
- Sarah-Jayne Gratton
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
DEFRA Minister Daniel Zeichner visited Harper Adams University on 27 March 2025 to explore cutting-edge advancements in agri-tech education, research, and industry collaboration.
The visit, attended by key representatives from The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH) and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, highlighted critical innovations poised to shape the future of British agriculture.
Minister Zeichner was guided through Harper Adams’ pioneering Future Farm, an innovative centre integrating research and teaching to develop sustainable farming practices. He also toured the UK Agri-Tech Centre’s Midlands Innovation Hub, witnessing first-hand how businesses are scaling vital technologies, including labour-saving harvesting tools and waste-repurposing solutions, essential for increasing productivity and environmental sustainability.
During a working lunch with Harper Adams students and industry stakeholders, discussions focused on significant challenges facing the agricultural sector. These included the importance of robust agricultural research and development, addressing critical skills gaps in the workforce, refining land-use frameworks, and navigating wider policy issues affecting agriculture.
Dr Peter Quinn of the UK Agri-Tech Centre emphasised the urgency of accelerating real-world adoption of agri-tech innovations, pointing to successful initiatives such as UPP’s advanced broccoli harvesting techniques and developments in alternative proteins.
Tess Howe from TIAH highlighted the critical role of continuous skills development in adapting to evolving agricultural technologies, announcing upcoming research into labour market trends to support workforce preparedness.
Professor Ken Sloan, representing Harper Adams University, outlined the institution’s successful collaborative model with industry partners, designed to strengthen sector resilience and foster innovation.
The visit underscored the importance of effective partnerships in advancing sustainable agri-food systems. Harper Adams’ ongoing initiatives, including the Future Farmer Programme and research into monetising natural capital, demonstrate the potential for transformative change within the industry, supported by strong government and sector cooperation.
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