Prospective students who want to study agriculture at Taung Agricultural College and Potchefstroom Agricultural College have been urged by the North West department of agriculture and rural development to apply for space for the 2026 academic year. Registration opened last month and closes on 31 October 2025.
MEC Madoda Sambatha has called on all prospective students to apply early to avoid late submissions and the risk of missing this life-changing opportunity.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our province’s economy, and the youth are the future of this vital sector. I urge all young people with a passion for
farming and food production to apply without delay. Do not wait until the last minute, secure your space now and prepare to grow with the industry,” said Sambatha.
Sambatha said the two institutions are catalysts for cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.
“Whether aspiring to become innovative farmers, cutting-edge researchers, skilled technicians, or forward-thinking agribusiness professionals, students are equipped with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the sector.”
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The colleges offer in-demand diploma programmes tailored to meet the evolving needs of agriculture: a diploma in agriculture (irrigation) at Taung Agricultural College and a diploma in agriculture (mixed farming) at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.
Admission requirements
The department said admission requirements for TAC’s diploma in agriculture (irrigation) include a national senior certificate or equivalent qualification, with English at level 4, life sciences or agricultural sciences at level 3, mathematics at level 3 or mathematical literacy at level 4, and physical sciences at level 3 as an advantage.
“Potchesfstroom College of Agriculture’s diploma in agriculture (mixed farming) requires Afrikaans or English at a minimum of level 4 (50–59%), with compulsory subjects such as agricultural sciences, agricultural management practices, or agricultural technology. Mathematics, physical science, business economics, life sciences, accounting, mathematical literacy, and engineering are recommended,” the department stated.
“Applicants must obtain at least 24 points on the Swedish Rating Scale, with level 3 or higher in six relevant subjects, excluding life orientation. Application forms can be collected directly from the respective colleges or downloaded from the department’s website.”
Sambatha said enrolling at either of the two institutions is not just a choice, it is a must for anyone serious about becoming a force in agriculture.
“Taung Agricultural College is the only institution in South Africa offering a diploma in agriculture (irrigation), equipping students with niche skills in water-smart farming. PCA offers a robust and comprehensive diploma in agriculture (mixed farming), opening doors across the agricultural value chain.
“Both colleges are known for practical training, expert instruction, and producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Choosing one of these colleges means choosing a future of purpose, productivity, and agricultural excellence,” he said.
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