News

The Faculty of Agriculture announced the launch of its new Strategic Plan this week, a roadmap designed to strengthen agricultural innovation, enhance student success, and build resilient food systems for a rapidly changing world.

Developed over the past year through extensive consultation with faculty, students, industry partners, government agencies, alumni, and community stakeholders, the plan sets an ambitious vision to position the Faculty of Agriculture as a leading engine of agricultural transformation locally, nationally, and globally.

“This plan represents our collective aspiration to lead agriculture into a new era,” said Dean Dr. Heather Bruce. “From emerging technologies to regenerative practices, we are preparing our students and researchers to shape the future of food.”

A Vision Rooted in Innovation and Impact

At the heart of the new plan is a commitment to address the most pressing challenges facing the agricultural sector—climate change, sustainable production, food security, technological disruption, and rural development.

The strategy outlines priority areas aimed at expanding research capacity, modernizing teaching and learning, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing community engagement.

Key Pillars of the Plan

1. Program Design
We will revitalize programs through innovative curriculum reform, integrating experiential learning across academic and non-academic initiatives. We will meet the evolving needs of a diverse, global learner population and ensure relevance to workforce and societal demands.

2. Research Impact
We will foster a vibrant, collaborative, and well-funded research ecosystem by strengthening interdisciplinary teamwork and stakeholder engagement. Through targeting strategic funding, we will create opportunities for cross disciplinary approaches and collaboration with internal and external partners.

3. Campus Life
We will foster a vibrant and inclusive environment by investing in infrastructure and initiatives that enhance engagement, belonging, and enjoyment for all-ultimately strengthening student experience and campus culture.

4. Community Engagement
We will amplify our story by aligning our messaging and outreach efforts to highlight our unique strengths. By opening our campus to and actively engaging with the broader community and agricultural industry, we will showcase our talent, build authentic relationships, and foster an environment that strengthens both local and global connections.

Priorities include building and strengthening bridges with Indigenous, African and Black Nova Scotian communities and investing in campus accessibility.

Shaping the Future of Agriculture Together

The plan positions the Faculty of Agriculture as a leader ready to meet the challenges of the next decade. It not only reflects the evolving needs of the sector but also reaffirms the Faculty’s commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and community partnership.

“With this plan, we have a united, shared vision for change, engagement and excellence as we pursue greater impact and visibility provincially, nationally and internationally,” She added. “The future of agriculture depends on collaboration, curiosity, and courage—and this plan embodies all three.”

The Faculty will begin rolling out key initiatives immediately, with progress updates shared regularly.

View the complete plan.