With the aim of giving the future of Danish pig production a boost, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council’s Pig Sector has set up a training programme for young and talented people in the industry. The aim of the Masterclass programme is to enhance the skills of the young professionals and provide them with greater insight into the political and professional aspects of the industry.

The group of 15, who have already chosen a career in pig production, met various experts from the industry, including the Danish Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, to gain a 350-degree view of Danish pig production.  

"Masterclass 2025 builds bridges between the future prospects in Danish pig production and the organisations that surround them. We create a platform where young talents can improve their professional insight and strengthen their network,” explains Christian Fink Hansen, Sector Director, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council’s Pig Sector.

Ambitious for the future

Magnus Thøgersen, 26, one of the Masterclass participants, is responsible for the service and  gestation unit at a pig farm in Vadum, just outside the north Jutlandian city of Aalborg. He graduated from agricultural college in 2019 and is keen to dispel some of the myths that people have about pig production.   

"I’ve found that once I’ve explained to my friends how the industry in Denmark is working to reduce antibiotic consumption, for instance, their attitude becomes much more positive,” says Magnus.  

Sustainable bottom line

Emmy Rønving, 27, is another Masterclass participant. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Animal Science from Copenhagen University in April 2024. Since then, she has been working as a pig production consultant.  

She believes it important to gain a greater understanding of the people she works with – directly and indirectly.  

”I’m very interested in how to make pig production more sustainable. It’s not only about the climate, but also about how the farmer’s bottom line remains economically sustainable. Danish pig production cannot be allowed to fade away – it’s important that we develop it,” she says.