Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba (AITC-M) has entered a transformative three-year funding partnership with Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP), amounting to $105,000.
The alliance underscores a shared commitment to ensuring the next generation is well-informed about the agriculture industry’s opportunities and challenges.
Katharine Cherewyk, executive director of AITC-M, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership following the announcement.
“We are incredibly grateful for Manitoba Beef Producers’ unwavering support. Their commitment is a testament to the vital role agricultural education plays in shaping informed and engaged citizens,” she said.
“Together, we are paving the way for students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the agriculture sector, including the beef industry.”
According to Matthew Atkinson, District 8 director and president of Manitoba Beef Producers said the commitment will ensure school-aged children across Manitoba have access to accurate, balanced, and science-based resources about the beef sector delivered by Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba in a fun and engaging manner.
“There is tremendous value in connecting farmers and educators to spark conversations and promote hands-on learning opportunities that bring the farm to the classroom,” he said.
The ongoing partnership has already seen remarkable achievements. Notably, MBP’s support was pivotal to the success of the 2023 Amazing Agriculture Adventure: Animals event in Glenlea, Man., where 650 Grades 4 and 5 students immersed themselves in the livestock industry’s practical realities.
Additionally, MBP’s role as a Foundational Supporter of the Foundations of Manitoba Agriculture virtual hub has provided students with robust learning resources on 18 key agricultural commodities, including beef.
Last year, MBP also sponsored Beef Week, an AITC-M social media campaign that culminated in 60 students learning about cows in the classroom – virtually.
The impact extends to the Eat Well: Exploring Canada’s Food Guide initiative, which has benefitted 1,120 students from Grades 4 to 6, thanks to MBP’s contributions.
AITC-M is committed to fostering connections between Manitoba's youth and agriculture through innovative educational programs and resources, ensuring a well-informed future generation.
Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) is the exclusive voice of the province’s cattle industry, representing approximately 6,000 producers in the cow-calf, backgrounding and finishing sectors.
