Save the date! UNE Armidale Campus - March 28, 2025 (Term 1, week 9)

Building on the success of our 2024 Agmentation in schools program—which saw students across the New England North West develop innovative solutions for agricultural challenges—we're excited to announce our next initiative focused on controlled environment horticulture innovation.

Program background
Last year's program, delivered in partnership with the NSW Government, culminated in the AgTech Youth Innovation Summit at UNE SMART Farm. Students tackled real-world agricultural challenges using AI and modern technology, with Narrabri High School winning the pitch competition for their innovative floating solar panel solution. Their success led to an exciting opportunity to pitch their idea on the national stage at evokeAG 2025, demonstrating how these programs can open doors for regional students to showcase their innovations at a national level.

Industry insight day
This immersive day brings together leading industry partners including Australian Natural Therapeutics Group, Costa Group, the Berry Farm, and UNE's advanced glasshouse facilities.
Date: Friday 28 March
Location: UNE, Armidale

For schools outside Armidale

• Arrival: March 27 evening

• Accommodation: UNE colleges

• Evening activities: Campus tour and networking dinner

Program highlights

• Breakfast at UNE Potting shed

• Industry insight sessions from leading agricultural innovators

• Guided tour of UNE's state-of-the-art glasshouse facilities

• Interactive design-thinking and ideation workshop

• Networking opportunities with industry professionals

• Program concludes at 2pm to facilitate return travel

Note: Industry speakers are currently being confirmed. Full program details, including confirmed speakers, will be provided following your expression of interest.

Future program components (May 2025 - Week 4 and 5)
Building on the March industry day, we will deliver two additional program elements:

Teacher professional development

• Afternoon sessions at participating schools

• Focus on AI in education

• Program context and implementation

• Teaching resources and support materials

Mini-Agmentation in Schools Program

• Returning to Moree, Narrabri, Tamworth, and Armidale

• Hands-on innovation workshops

• Building on March industry insights

• Practical application of learning

Next steps

1. Please express your interest in participating in the March Industry Day:
   For Armidale schools (day program only)
   For New England North West schools (including accommodation option

2. Submit your expression of interest to the Department of Education, Karly Brogan, karly.brogan2@det.nsw.edu.au

Important note
Following your expression of interest, the UNE SMART Region Incubator team will provide comprehensive information about:

• Detailed program schedule

• College accommodation arrangements

• Confirmed industry speakers

• All planned activities and requirements

This program is proudly delivered by the Office of Regional Economic Development and Training Services NSW under the Regional Investment Attraction Program, Targeted Workforce Development Scheme.