Bursary launched aiming to support organic education
The Organic Trust has announced the launch of its 2026 Educational Bursary Award.
Supported by the National Organic Training Skillnet (NOTS) and delivered by South East Technological University (SETU), the bursary is aimed at supporting organic education and investing directly in the future of Ireland’s organic sector.
The bursary programme is open exclusively to the Organic Trusts’ 2,450 members and their immediate family members.
In 2026, two bursaries will be awarded, each covering the full course fees for a successful applicant undertaking an organic agricultural or horticultural programme at SETU Waterford, commencing in autumn 2026.
One bursary will support a student pursuing an MSc in Organic and Biological Agriculture, whilst the second will support an MSc in Organic and Biological Horticulture.
Organic education
Speaking at the launch, Stephen Connolly, CEO of the Organic Trust, said: “We are delighted to see this initiative take off after a lot of research, conversation and deliberation.
"Our members are always at the forefront of everything we do.
"At the Organic Trust, we genuinely see education as one of the main pillars of success for our organisation and the wider organic sector.”
Kevin Fagan, head of operations at NOTS, explained how the SETU programmes were "designed for busy people".
"When we were developing the organic and biological educational programmes with SETU in Waterford, we wanted to make sure the courses were accessible to people working full-time in organic farming, or food production," Fagan said.
"We know how busy people’s lives are and so we are delighted that the course is delivered online two evenings per week.
"We did not pluck these courses out of the air – there was and is a real demand for formal organic education.
"So, this bursary is a worthwhile and valuable opportunity for all who are eligible."
Increased demand
SETU programme leader, John Geraghty also welcomed the partnership, noting the importance of education in supporting innovation and sustainability within the organic sector.
"So much has changed in recent years in the Irish food and farming context," Geraghty said.
"All these changes increased the demand for more focused education and applied courses within the organic sector.
"Hence, there is a noteworthy desire among farmers and growers to improve their knowledge and skills."
Successful applicants will be selected through a competitive application and interview process.
Expressions of interest are now open, with an online submission deadline of April 3, 2026.
Eligible applicants will be shortlisted after the closing date, with selected candidates invited to interview.
Courses commence in autumn 2026, in line with SETU’s application window.
Expressions of interest can be submitted via the online form circulated to all Organic Trust members by email.
