Wednesday, 25 September 2024 10:55

Beware groupthink

Written by The Hound

font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

OPINION: Massey University has long been, and still is, a core part of the NZ farming scene, training the next generation of farmers, growers, agronomists and more, and doing great research too.

But new research suggests they may have an issue with academic freedom, with the latest Massey Engagement Pulse survey showing many staff there do not feel free to voice their opinions "for fear of reprisal" for not toeing the party line.

Only 5% agreed there was "honest two-way communication" (66% disagreed) and 9% agreed the leadership kept people informed about what is happening (61% disagreed).

The Free Speech Union says the same trend has been seen at the woke AUT and Auckland Uni, where they say debate and dissent is not welcomed.

This old mutt just hopes Masey isn't going the same way.

More like this

Remembering Bolger

OPINION: Is it now time for the country's top agricultural university to start thinking about a name change - something that has been mooted in the past?

Fonterra’s Pierre Venter named next vice chancellor of Massey University

The head of Fonterra's R&D facility in Palmerston North is set to literally cross the road and become the new vice chancellor at Massey University.

Distance education on the rise - Massey University

An increasing number of students are doing agricultural and horticultural degrees at Massey University by distance learning.

Fonterra executive named new Massey University vice chancellor

When Professor Pierre Venter takes up his new role as vice chancellor at Massey University next February it will just be a matter of taking a few steps across the road to get to his new office at the Palmerston North Campus.

Farmers Lead Sustainability Push: Woodchip bioreactor cuts nitrate runoff in Manawatu

Claims that farmers are polluters of waterways and aquifers and 'don't care' still ring out from environmental groups and individuals. The phrase 'dirty dairying' continues to surface from time to time. But as reporter Peter Burke points out, quite the opposite is the case. He says, quietly and behind the scenes, farmers are embracing new ideas and technologies to make their farms sustainable, resilient, environmentally friendly and profitable.

Featured

Wage Theft Becomes Criminal Offence: What NZ farmers need to know

In a significant shift for employers, wage theft is no longer only a civil matter but now also a criminal one.

Fonterra launches dairy youth programme with Growing Future Farmers

In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF), Fonterra says it is increasing support for young people entering the dairy industry with a new two-year programme.

Editorial: Resource consent saga

OPINION: The Government needs to act now to address consenting issues faced by farmers throughout the country.

Winston Peters slams Fonterra’s sale to Lactalis as “utter madness”

NZ First leader Winston Peters has continued his criticism of Fonterra to sell its brand business to the French company Lactalis, saying the move is "utter madness".

Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade

When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.

NZYF launches employer supporter membership for rural businesses

New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) has launched a new initiative designed to make it easier for employers to support their young team members by covering their NZYF membership.