Galicia's Shepherd School graduates first 18 to revive rural livestock farming

The Galician School of Shepherds graduated its first 18 students on Saturday in Vilariño de Conso, aiming to boost generational renewal in rural livestock farming. Diplomas were awarded to these future shepherds, a profession at risk of extinction. The training ran from March to September in Xinzo de Limia, promoted by Ovica with funding from Fundación La Caixa and Agacal. Students, aged 21 to 66, completed 330 theoretical and 200 practical hours, including an official agrarian aptitude course. Of 44 applicants, 20 were selected and 18 finished, including 8 women. Participants came from various Ourense municipalities and elsewhere. A second edition will begin in January 2027.