South Africa Wine has announced the launch of its 2024 graduate placement programme, a new initiative aimed at developing the next generation of professionals in the wine industry.
The programme is designed to connect talented tertiary graduates, particularly black graduates as defined by BEE codes, with opportunities for fixed-term placements of six to 12 months within member companies across the wine industry’s value chain.
The initiative reflects South Africa Wine’s commitment to enhancing skill development and career opportunities for young South Africans. The placements will cover a range of roles including viticulture, winemaking, logistics, export management, and industrial engineering, addressing key skill needs across the industry.
Kachné Ross, people and skills development manager at South Africa Wine, emphasised the programme’s broader impact. “We are focused on skills development to advance both individual careers and the overall capacity for innovation within the industry,” Ross said.
The programme will be supported by Agrijob, which will provide recruitment services free of charge to member companies.
Agrijob will manage the matching process between businesses and graduates, from initial consultations to final placements. Additionally, South Africa Wine will contribute R5 000 per month to each graduate’s salary, helping companies offer competitive wages and reduce the financial impact of hiring new talent.
“This initiative is about more than just filling positions,” Ross added. “It’s an investment in the future of the industry, aimed at building a more skilled and diverse workforce.”
- South Africa Wine is calling on wine businesses throughout South Africa to participate in the programme. Interested employers are encouraged to contact Ross at kachne@sawine.co.za or 021 276 0450 to get started.
READ NEXT: South Africa Wine’s investment in research a game-changer
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
