26 October 1992 Chance to Sharpen Leadership Skills

Applications for places on the 1993 Lincoln University Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme are on the point of closing and the director, Dr Alastair McArthur, urges prospective candidates to get in touch with him as soon as possible.

The programme is a golden opportunity for those in the rural sector to sharpen their leadership skills and take up the challenge of contributing to its growth and prosperity, he says.

"In the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme we introduce participants to the evergreen elements of leadership and instruct them on improving initiative, developing self-assurance and acquiring the ability to rise above difficult situations and see problems in relation to the wider context."

"The courses began at Lincoln in 1979 with the belief that leadership would be a critical factor in the future performance of New Zealand agriculture. That belief still applies," says Dr McArthur.

Places on the course are open to men and women between the ages of 25 and 45 who have a connection with the rural sector. Successful candidates are chosen on the basis of leadership contributions to date and potential to benefit from the course.

Over 300 scholars have taken part over the years and the list includes three current Cabinet Ministers and the Dominion President of Federated Farmers.

From South Canterbury past Kellogg scholars include Simon Cameron of Ben Ohau Station, Lake Pukaki; Andrew Orbell of Clayton Station, Fairlie; Don McFarlane of Pinehaven, Orton; Reese Hart of Waitohi; and Peter Bosworth of Bosworth Associates, Timaru.

The scholars pay no tuition fees – only accommodation, meal and transport costs – and there are four phases to the course. In February there is a 10-day period in residence at Lincoln University, followed by a research project carried out at home, a return to Lincoln in November, and a visit to the corridors of political and business power in Wellington.

Application forms may be obtained from Dr Alastair McArthur, Economics and Marketing Department, PO Box 84, Lincoln University, Canterbury.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand.