Agri education partnership bridges skills gap in SA

Omnia, Market Place Academy (MPA) and the Gauteng department of education recently launched an agricultural education initiative at the John Orr Engineering School of Specialisation in Johannesburg.

This marked a significant milestone in transforming South Africa’s education landscape through industry-led partnerships that prepare learners for sustainable careers in agriculture and other specialised fields.

In a statement, Omnia said that as South Africa navigates a rapidly evolving job market, the future of meaningful employment lies in artisan trades and the expanding agricultural sector.

“John Orr is actively driving this shift by preparing learners for high-demand, future-focused careers. A school with deep roots in technical education, it has evolved into an innovator of specialised learning.

“With its new agricultural infrastructure, hands-on learning programmes, and multi-certification pathways, learners now graduate with both a grade 12 certificate and a recognised occupational qualification, opening doors to employment, entrepreneurship, and further study,” the statement said.

Cultivating a future in agriculture

The event unveiled agricultural infrastructure, including planting tunnels, irrigation systems, and fruit orchards, alongside accredited training programmes for educators and learners.

“Omnia proudly supports this vision, and the partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a pipeline of skilled talent that will power South Africa’s economic growth.

“The initiative is rooted in the department of education’s Three-Stream Curriculum model, which offers academic, vocational, and occupational pathways. This model allows learners at John Orr and other schools of specialisation to gain hands-on experience in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and technical subjects, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world workplace readiness,” the organisation stated.

Tiaan Kotze, chief operating officer at Omnia, said the partnership sets a powerful precedent for how industry and education can unite to tackle South Africa’s employable skills shortage.

“By investing in infrastructure and empowering educators, we’re not just advancing food security, we’re cultivating futures,” Kotze said.

Chantyl Mulder, CEO of Market Place Academy, said their mission is to unlock potential in underserved communities. “Through this programme, learners leave school with more than just a certificate; they leave with a career pathway,” Mulder said.