Horticulture in the 21st century: The need for an educated workforce

The challenge of feeding the world is well known. The challenge increases significantly if population projections of 9.3 billion by 2050 are realised. Horticulture therefore must play its part and there are great opportunities for the industry. Taking advantage of such opportunities however will require significant increases in productivity, uptake of technology and environmental management at levels much higher than hitherto has been needed.
A highly educated and skilled workforce therefore becomes an imperative in order to achieve the necessary productivity gains. The task for horticulture is to re-fashion its image, create career paths for newcomers and work smarter not harder. An appropriate workforce will only occur if prospective employees find attraction to the careers on offer in the industry. That includes the industry valuing education and training and the associated qualifications. In Australia, these issues have been the focus of attention more generally and the industry has the challenge ahead to entice the next generation of horticulturists into its fold.