Upskilling helps people and boosts profits

Improving workers' skills is essential to increasing production efficiency and improving staff morale, and lies entirely with the farmer, who is ultimately the custodian of food production. Indeed, fulfilling this role responsibly requires ensuring that farmworkers undergo ongoing training, says Janine Ryan.

- Janine Ryan

The importance of farmers upskilling their workers cannot be overstated, as it brings numerous benefits to workers and farmers, as well as the sustainability of the agriculture sector as a whole. By upskilling their workers, farmers can improve efficiency, embrace new technologies, promote sustainability, ensure product quality and safety, adapt to market demands, plan for the future, and enhance worker satisfaction. These benefits contribute to the overall success and competitiveness of the farm while fostering a sustainable and thriving agriculture sector.

• Efficiency and productivity

Upskilling workers enhances their knowledge and skills, enabling them to perform their tasks more efficiently and effectively. With improved techniques, workers can streamline operations, optimise resource utilisation, and increase productivity. This, in turn, leads to higher yields, reduced costs, and improved profitability.

• Technological adaptation

Agriculture is becoming increasingly technology-driven, with innovations such as precision farming, data analytics and automated machinery playing a vital role. By upskilling their workers, farmers ensure that they have the necessary skills to operate and leverage modern agricultural technologies. This helps farmers stay competitive, embrace new production methods, and maximise the benefits offered by advancements in the sector.

• Sustainability and environmental stewardship