Agri SA Enterprises and AgriSETA join forces for rural development

The partnership between Agri SA Enterprises and AgriSETA marks a significant stride towards rural empowerment. By pooling resources and expertise, they aim to tackle challenges, including youth engagement and community conflicts, while nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders through targeted interventions

In a significant step towards fostering rural development within South Africa’s agricultural landscape, Agri SA Enterprises and AgriSETA have joined forces. This partnership aims to empower women and youth and bring transformative change in communities that have long-awaited revitalisation.

In this episode, Craig Murrell, head of advisory services at Agri SA Enterprises, emphasises their commitment to rural empowerment.

“Our collaboration with AgriSETA allows us to combine resources and expertise for a greater impact. This unified approach has already yielded notable outcomes, exemplified by the success of the Women in Farming Programme.”

Focus on youth engagement

AgriSETA, renowned for its data-driven strategies, brings precision to the table.

Mdupi Shabangu, executive manager of learning programmes and projects at AgriSETA, says, “We run a variety of programmes, including learnerships for unemployed graduates and training programmes specifically tailored for those initiating agricultural ventures.”

This targeted approach ensures that interventions address specific needs, maximising their efficacy.

Youth engagement is a focal point for both organisations. Shabangu emphasises the importance of nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders, citing a positive increase in youth participation. However, challenges persist, ranging from beneficiary selection to internal community conflicts. Despite these obstacles, optimism prevails.

Agri SA Enterprises offers mentorship programmes to address these challenges, while AgriSETA plans to train over 10 500 learners in collaboration with rural development initiatives. “Partnerships are essential for long-term success,” says Murrell.

In this episode, they also discuss:

How AgriSETA uses a data-driven approach to target its programmes;
Challenges with the programme, which include lack of funding and internal conflict within communities;
How both organisations prioritise youth development in agriculture.