“As the world continues to evolve at a rapid pace, collaboration will be vital as we tackle major challenges such as climate change and food security" - Professor Wayne Powell. SRUC.

“The UK AgriFutures Alliance will drive shared knowledge exchange”

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has signed an agreement with the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) to advance leadership in food security, climate resilience, and animal health.

Under the new UK AgriFutures Alliance, the institutions will combine their expertise in veterinary science, agriculture, food systems, and rural enterprise across research, knowledge exchange, and transnational education.

During a signing ceremony at the RVC campus in London, alliance members agreed to develop a collaborative UK platform spanning food systems, business, and veterinary capability. The partners will pursue joint research, workshops, and postgraduate training focused on One Health, sustainable and smart agriculture, livestock systems, climate resilience, and agri-food innovation.

Professor Stuart Reid, president & principal of the RVC, said: “The RVC is delighted to be a founding member of this important alliance. The global significance of the agrifood sector cannot be overstated and the need for sustainability, safety and security is paramount.

"By joining forces with our cognate specialist partners, we will advance and promote excellence in education, research and consultancy for the benefit of animal and human health. Truly an example of synergy, we are very much stronger together as we address these global societal challenges.”

The UK AgriFutures Alliance will drive shared knowledge exchange, including industry engagement, consultancy, and training, while expanding transnational education in China and other priority markets. The Alliance will also submit joint applications to major UK and international funding bodies.

Professor Peter McCaffery, vice-chancellor of the RAU, said: “We’re proud to be joining forces with partners whose values and ambitions so closely align with our own. Together, we can build a stronger international presence, grow our transnational education offer and amplify our collective impact on issues that matter to every nation, from food security and animal health to resilient landscapes and thriving rural communities.

“Collectively we can extend the UK’s leadership in these vital fields and develop the next generation of professionals and innovators who will shape a more resilient future. This is a partnership with the potential to create lasting global impact.”

Professor Wayne Powell, principal and chief executive of SRUC, added: “As the world continues to evolve at a rapid pace, collaboration will be vital as we tackle major challenges such as climate change and food security. But with these challenges come opportunities, and we are delighted to help create this important alliance with the RAU and RVC, complementing each other’s respective strengths and expertise to educate the next generation of leaders.”

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