Farmers sought for diversification study

Posted 12 April 2022

Farmers from across the West Midlands are being sought for their views on farm diversification by a Harper Adams University student.

International student Dave Li, from China, is examining how UK farms are diversifying for his final year Honours Research Project.

Dave, who is studying BSc Food Quality with Retail Management, needs farmers across the region to fill in a short online questionnaire, which can be found here.

Dr Jane Eastham, who is supervising Dave’s research, said: “Dave is extremely interested in how and why people diversify in England – this is an unknown phenomenon in China.  

“He believes that understanding the value, reasons and challenges for farmers in the UK, may offer insights to address rural poverty within China.”

The Honours Research Project is a long-form piece of research undertaken by Harper Adams University undergraduates. Once he receives replies from West Midlands farmers, Dave will build the survey responses into his wider dissertation – work for which is already well underway.

Dave, who is originally from Beijing, has been studying in the UK for the past four months - and has found himself charmed by both his studies and by the chance to study at Harper Adams University’s Shropshire campus, with its contrast with his native land.

He said: “I have really enjoyed my experience in the UK and my studies at Harper Adams University. The landscape is very different from China, and I really like it. The people and culture of the UK are very attractive.

“I would welcome the further opportunity to learn more about UK farming - particularly about farmers from the Shropshire community.”