FAMILY, friends and staff at Enniskillen Campus came together recently to celebrate a memorable day, as students graduated from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE).

The ceremony, hosted at Greenmount Campus, Antrim, marked the culmination of hands-on learning, dedication (especially those early morning yard shifts) and academic excellence. Higher Education Equine programmes delivered at CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus are validated by Ulster University.

Students and staff were pleased to welcome Professor Julie-Anne Little and Leslie George from the University to join the celebrations.

Graduates from the BSc Honours, Foundation Degree and Certificate of Higher Education programmes in Equine Management and Equine Science were honoured for their achievements.

Welcoming the students and guests to the ceremony, Katrina Godfrey, Permanent Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) remarked: “Graduates here today have made an important investment in their skills and knowledge that will provide the foundation of their future career, whatever that is and wherever it may take them.”

CAFRE Director, Paul McHenry delivered his college report, urging students to recognise that: “Today not only marks an important milestone in your lives, but as one step on a lifetime journey of learning. It is important that you take ownership of that journey, shaping your direction with purpose, confidence and ambition. The most successful professionals are those who never stand still, but continue to grow, adapt and innovate…”

Equine Management students at Enniskillen Campus enjoyed a year filled with travel, industry connections and opportunities to develop their skills. Congratulations were extended to all the students, with two notable students, Nadia Donnelly from Omagh and Coraigh Lynch from Greysteel, who attained First Class Honours in their BSc (Hons) Equine Management degree courses.

As the Class of 2026 steps into the next chapter of their careers, they carry with them the knowledge, passion and professionalism that define Enniskillen Campus’ Equine graduate reputation. Final words of encouragement were shared by the CAFRE Director to: “Be proud of all you have achieved, take time to recognise and celebrate your successes, both big and small, along the way and always remember that success is not just about what you know; it is about what you do with that knowledge.”

If you are interested in a course to start or support your career in the equine industry, please visit: www.cafre.ac.uk to discover our range of full-time, part-time and short courses. Applications are still being accepted for courses starting in September 2026.