The event
was held in Aras na MacLeinn and was attended by over 150 people, including NGO
staff (Trocaire, Gorta, Africa Direct, Bothar), Irish Aid, UCC staff and
students. UCC President, Dr Michael Murphy opened the event, which was also
addressed by Minister for Trade and Commerce, Mr Billy Kelleher.
Tom Arnold, CEO of Concern Worldwide, gave the keynote address outlining the
Global situation with regard to Hunger and Food Security, and highlighting
Ireland’s contribution to tackling hunger.
Students presented under four themes: Agriculture and Food Security; Health and
Nutrition; Conservation, Climate Change and the Environment; and Human Rights.
Amongst other issues, students spoke about their work on seed co-operatives in
Ethiopia and Uganda, documenting stories of change around access to justice in
Kenya, assisting with primary health care work in Kenya, and silk production
and conservation in Madagascar.
In her closing remarks, H.E. Ms Catherine Muigai Mwangi, Kenyan Ambassador to
Ireland, noted how important it was that the students had immersed themselves
locally and worked closely with local people and organisations. She
praised the students on their work and presentations and offered to be of
assistance with further placements in Kenya.
Picture: Professor Patrick Fitzpatrick Head of SEFS, UCC,
Professor Michael Ward, Head Department of Food Business and Development,
Caoimhe Ni Eochagain BSc IDFP IV, Mr Billy Kelleher, Minister for Trade and
Commerce, Dr Michael Murphy President UCC, John Condon BSc IDFP IV, Dr Nick
Chisholm Academic Director of IDFP programme, Mr Tom Arnold CEO Concern
Worldwide.
