Entries now open for the NEW ABP ANGUS YOUTH CHALLENGE

The ABP Angus Youth Challenge is now welcoming applications. ABP NI is providing an opportunity for 14-15 year olds to engage in an updated version of its agricultural skills contest for young people. The competition's structure has been revised for the new school year to facilitate easier supervision by educators and integration with GCSE coursework. Participants have the chance to win exciting rewards, such as a small herd of Angus cross calves valued at approximately £3,500 and a three-day educational trip with ABP. This year's competition will be more concise and scheduled outside of the regular school term. Charles Smith from the Northern Irish Angus Producer Group, who organizes the event on behalf of ABP, mentioned, "Considering the challenges schools have encountered due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we've collaborated with educational professionals to make the competition more streamlined. It's now better aligned with the educational goals of various GCSE subjects, aiding in academic achievement. It still provides young people with a hands-on learning experience in beef production, enhancing their education through practical engagement." Key activities, including exhibitions and training sessions, are planned for the mid-term holidays. Finalists will receive guidance from a mentor at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise to help with their research projects. "We are optimistic that the study tour with ABP and the training in communication and presentation skills will be conducted in-person in 2022. The program will conclude within a year, allowing winners to focus on their Year 12 exams," added Charles Smith. Participants can enter the ABP Angus Youth Challenge through a brief video submission and an online interview. Selected entrants will be invited to a showcase event during the Halloween break, where an independent panel will evaluate the teams and their presentations to select the finalists and award prizes. The top team will receive £1,000 for their club, society, or school. George Mullan, Managing Director of ABP in Northern Ireland, commented on the initiative, "The ABP Angus Youth Challenge engages young individuals at a crucial point in their education, aiming to motivate them towards a career in our industry. We've observed the positive impact this experience has on the youth and encourage more to seize this opportunity." Schools such as Castle Tower School Ballymena, Cross and Passion College Ballycastle, Ballymena Academy, Magherafelt High School, and Omagh Academy are set to complete the finalist program this year, while Dalriada School Ballymoney, Cookstown High School, Friends’ School Lisburn, and St Kevin’s College Lisnaskea began their finalist journey in June 2021. The challenge is open to groups of 2-4 from schools, clubs, societies, or friends. No farming background is required to participate. ABP will support finalists in finding a suitable farm for their project. Entries can be submitted at the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website. The deadline for entries is 27th September 2021. For any questions regarding the competition, please contact Gillian Allen at ABP at gillian.allen@abpbeef.com or the Northern Ireland Angus Producer Group at info@angusproducergroup.com.