ICYMI: KAL Academy celebrates graduation of new-generation farmers

KAL Academy commemorated the graduation of 28 new-generation farmers, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of Mzansi agriculture. As the flagship socio-economic development program of the JSE-listed KAL Group (previously Kaap Agri), the Academy is dedicated to empowering aspiring farmers through tailored, AgriSETA-accredited training courses.

The ceremony, held in Porterville in the Western Cape, served as a testament to the graduates’ personal growth and unwavering dedication. Among them, 28 individuals were awarded NQF2 and NQF3 qualifications in mixed farming systems and animal production, equipping them with the theoretical, practical, and managerial knowledge essential for success in the commercial farming sector.

New-generation farmers from KAL Academy’s mixed farming systems class pose for a photo with industry leaders and instructors. Graduates stand ready to make their mark in the commercial farming sector, guided by practical training and ongoing support from KAL Group and Agrimark Operations. Photo: Supplied/Food For Mzansi

Warren Bam, an esteemed organic table grape farmer and one of South Africa’s top new-generation farmers, shared practical advice gleaned from his own journey during the graduation ceremony.

“Don’t throw in the towel, don’t give up, and don’t be limited by time constraints,” Bam encouraged the graduates. “Let your passion for what you do be the driving force behind your goals.”

Producing quality graduates

With 499 alumni to date, KAL Academy has become a beacon of hope for new-generation farmers, producing graduates who have assumed prominent roles in the agriculture sector. Notable examples include raisin producer Martin van Rooi, Raisin SA’s Emerging Farmer of the Year in 2019, and Preline Swart, the first black women vice-chairperson of Grain SA.

Elize-Gerda Beukes, the top achiever in this year’s NQF3 animal production class, expressed gratitude for the invaluable knowledge gained through KAL Academy.

“Success in animal production isn’t just about raising livestock,” Beukes reflected. “It’s about nurturing life, understanding nature’s rhythms, and fostering good practices on our farm.”

Lelethu Vundla, top achiever in the NQF2 mixed farming systems class, proudly accepts her certificate and prizes from Sean Walsh, CEO of KAL Group, Tasneem Sulaiman-Bray, director of corporate affairs at Agrimark Operations, and Dr Ernest Messina, independent non-executive director of the board of directors of KAL Group, in recognition of her outstanding dedication and achievement in agricultural education at KAL Academy. Photo: Supplied/Food For Mzansi

Similarly, Lelethu Vundla, the top achiever in the NQF2 mixed farming systems programme, highlighted the transformative impact of her education at KAL Academy.

“With all the knowledge I’ve gained, I now see farming as more than just a job,” Vundla remarked. “It’s about gaining real wealth in terms of good values and true happiness.”

Members of the animal production class at KAL Academy pose for a group photo alongside instructors and industry leaders, showcasing their dedication to advancing their skills in agricultural education. With guidance from KAL Group and Agrimark Operations, these aspiring farmers are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the field of animal production. Photo: Supplied/Food For Mzansi

Sean Walsh, chief executive of KAL Group, commended the graduates for their dedication to shaping the future of agriculture and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting their ongoing development. “Choosing KAL Academy means becoming part of a community dedicated to fostering growth and sustainability,” Walsh emphasised.

KAL Academy employs a blended learning approach, incorporating in-person and online sessions, video-based learning, and practical field excursions. The academy covers all training costs, including tuition fees, transport, and accommodation, ensuring accessibility for new-generation farmers facing financial constraints.

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