The agricultural sector is not only vital to food production but also poses unique challenges in terms of health, safety, well-being, and risk management. Recognising the need for collaboration and knowledge sharing, the SafeHabitus project is gearing up for its 1st Summer School, set to take place from the 19th to the 21st of September 2023 in Oak Park, Carlow, Ireland.
Hosted by the project coordinator Teagasc (the Agriculture and Food Development Authority) this event marks a pivotal moment in the project’s journey.
SafeHabitus is a project aimed at transforming the landscape of health, safety, and wellbeing in the farming industry. With the objective of creating safer and more sustainable farming practices, the project is a collaborative effort involving multiple actors, including researchers, policymakers, farmers, and industry professionals. The Summer School is a crucial component of this initiative, providing a platform for these diverse stakeholders to connect, learn, and co-create strategies for change.
A highlight of this event will be the field visit to the renowned National Ploughing Championships, where innovation, tradition, and community converge in the world of agriculture. Held in Ratheniska, Co Laois, this annual event is one of the largest outdoor agricultural exhibitions and trade shows in Europe. It serves as a testament to the rich heritage of Irish agriculture while focusing on the latest advancements in the field.
The National Ploughing Championships primarily showcases cutting-edge agricultural machinery, equipment, and technology. For farmers, agricultural businesses, and industry professionals, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the latest innovations and solutions. Attendees can engage with exhibitors, discover new products and services, and gain valuable insights into modern farming practices.
Beyond the commercial aspect, the Ploughing Championships also feature a diverse array of competitions and demonstrations. These include ploughing contests that celebrate the art of traditional farming, livestock displays highlighting the importance of animal husbandry, forestry demonstrations showcasing sustainable practices, and rural skills competitions that recognize the talents of rural communities.
What makes the National Ploughing Championships especially significant for SafeHabitus partners is the chance to network and collaborate with a wide range of actors within the agricultural sector. With tens of thousands of visitors attending each year, the event becomes a hub for knowledge exchange and partnership building. It’s a place where researchers can connect with farmers, policymakers can engage with industry leaders, and practitioners can share their experiences.
As the 1st SafeHabitus Summer School unfolds in Ireland, it signifies a pivotal moment in the project’s journey. The field visit to the National Ploughing Championships adds an extra layer of significance to this event. It’s an opportunity for stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to come together, learn from one another, and collaborate in the spirit of driving change in health, safety, wellbeing, and risk management in farming. By forging connections and sharing insights, SafeHabitus is taking the first steps to create a community for a brighter, safer, and more sustainable future for the agricultural sector.