Donegal woman recognised at College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise awards

The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) hosted its annual Awards Ceremony, recognising the accomplishments of its Further Education Equine students, including Donegal's Aine Sweeney.

The Burtonport native picked up a Sport Certificate in Horse Care Management on a day when family members, friends, and invited guests gathered at Enniskillen Campus to celebrate the success of students who had completed full-time Level 2 Technical Certificates in Equine Care and Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diplomas in Equine Management. The event also recognised the achievements of part-time learners enrolled on Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship and online learning programmes.

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Ruth Morrison, General Manager at Downpatrick Racecourse, delivered an inspiring and heartfelt address to students, sharing her journey through the equine industry. Reflecting on her early life on the family farm she recalled how she went from reluctantly riding ponies as a child to developing a love for driving tractors and ultimately earning her jockey’s licence at just 16.

Ruth spoke passionately about the importance of embracing opportunities and the value of travel in broadening one’s horizons. “Travelling offers opportunities to make valuable contacts,” she said, “and helps you learn more about yourself.”

Encouraging students to remain curious and committed to lifelong learning, she added: “Today you’ve built a strong foundation of knowledge, but your real classroom will be in the field, the yard, or the racecourse. The world we live and work in is rapidly changing, and we must adapt to meet customer expectations, innovation, and sustainability demands. Work hard, gain respect, be humble, and develop curiosity.”

Students who complete Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications demonstrate the knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue careers in the equine sector. Level 3 graduates may also choose to continue their studies on Ulster University validated Foundation or Honours Degree programmes offered at CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus.

In addition to Level 2 and Level 3 students receiving awards at the event several students were recognised for outstanding accomplishments as they continue their studies at CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus.