The ‘First In-Person Conference of the National Union of Swine Education Centers’ brought together more than 200 university students and young professionals from across Spain interested in a future career in the swine sector . The event, held at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Zaragoza, was organized by the Interprofessional Agri-food Association for White Swine (INTERPORC), under the slogan ‘We are the future of swine’.
This first historic day, intended to pave the way for students in the world of work and build bridges between the University and companies, featured presentations, round tables, technical workshops and an international connection with the Circle of Studies and Research on Swine Medicine of Peru, with content focused on the challenges faced by young people, the different career paths, communication and current technical issues in the swine sector.
In addition, participants have learned about the experiences of other young people with different professional backgrounds in the sector, and have been able to establish a first direct contact with companies.
INTERPORC’s CEO, Alberto Herranz, emphasized the importance of connecting the sector with new generations. “The generational shift is one of the biggest challenges facing the pork industry, and to address it, it’s essential that young people can learn about it firsthand, receive training, and discover the professional opportunities it offers. Today, this community is beginning to take shape.”
For his part, Miguel Ángel Higuera, director of the National Association of Pig Producers (ANPROGAPOR), pointed out that “this initiative allows us all to get to know each other and build bridges between the University and the labor market, thus facilitating the transition of recent graduates at the start of their professional lives.”
Interest in pig farming
A survey conducted by the National Union of Pig Farming Classrooms of 370 students indicates that 78.8% of students request more farm visits, technical talks, and direct contact with companies. Furthermore, it shows that interest in pig farming triples during their studies when practical training and direct contact with the realities of the sector are included.
The National Union of Swine Classrooms is a project created by and for Veterinary and Agricultural Engineering students interested in the swine sector. Its objective is to connect the swine classrooms of different Spanish universities in a common network that allows for the sharing of experiences, strengthens training and communication between universities, and brings the academic world closer to professional practice. The initiative also seeks to offer students a space from which to contribute ideas and develop projects related to the future of the swine sector.
