Selwyn District Council and Lincoln University have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen their collaborative efforts for the district.
The MoU builds on the longstanding informal relationships between the two organisations.
Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Grant Edwards says the Memorandum of Understanding was a natural fit between two prominent neighbouring organisations that were committed to supporting sustainable development for the Selwyn district and its residents.
“Lincoln University’s purpose is to facilitate excellent research and education in the land-based sectors, to help shape a world that benefits from a greater understanding of the relationship between land, food and ecosystems,” he said.
“The efforts of our staff, researchers, students and graduates will directly contribute to advancing agriculture, agribusiness, environmental management, recreation and tourism within the Selwyn district.”
Selwyn is officially New Zealand’s fastest-growing district, as confirmed in the recently released 2023 Census data. Its population has surged 29% in the last five years.
Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University has increased its student population year-on-year since 2018. It is on track to achieve its highest-ever student headcount of 5,000 by the end of 2024.
It is New Zealand’s only specialist university focusing on the land-based sectors and is renowned globally for the quality of its teaching and research programmes, its graduates’ high employability, and its outstanding campus experience, the University said in a statement.
The two organisations have a long-established history of sharing knowledge and expertise. Lincoln students undertake work experience or research at the Council, and Council staff deliver guest lectures or help with research projects at the University.
The University says the new agreement will expand these activities to include formal staffing exchange programmes, student internships, and many other professional development initiatives, ensuring the district has the required workforce for the future.
The relationship builds on the past to benefit the future, said Council Chief Executive, Sharon Mason.
“We have had many great Lincoln graduates come through to work with us, and our staff has linked back to discuss real ways students can work with us on building the district while they study and build their careers,” she said.
“This is an excellent opportunity to build those links and work together more to grow our future Selwyn.”
