A Co. Tyrone student, has won a prestigious travel scholarship to Japan.

University College Dublin agricultural science student, Tarlach Mac Giolla Cheara from Carrickmore is the winner of the Agricultural Science Association (ASA) scholarship to Japan, pictured right with ASA President Eoin Lowry (centre) and Shane Whelan, AIB, scholarship sponsor.

Tarlach Mac Giolla Cheara is a third year student of agricultural science in University College Dublin and the scholarship will help him complete the work experience element of his course overseas.

He is just one of four recipients nationally of the prestigious scholarships, which are sponsored by AIB.

Tarlach, who is specialising in animal science - equine, is travelling to Japan to work at Paca Paca Farm, the highly acclaimed horse breeding operation owned and run by Irish veterinarian, Harry Sweeney.

Congratulating Tarlach on his achievement, ASA President Eoin Lowry said the scholarships are aimed at encouraging students to gain experience of the global agri-food industry.

“Competition for these scholarships was intense and Tarlach is a worthy winner. I am confident he will benefit both personally and professionally from his time in Japan,” he said.

Shane Whelan, on behalf of scholarship sponsors AIB, said he was confident the skills, expertise and knowledge developed by Tarlach during his assignment will be of benefit long after his college experience has ended.

The Agricultural Science Association (ASA) is the professional association for graduates working in all areas of the agri-food sector.

The student travel scholarship is one of a comprehensive range of initiatives provided by the association for agricultural science students, who represent the next generation of leaders in the agri-food industry.