In the heart of South Africa’s agricultural hub, Senwes, through its Thobo Trust, is sowing the seeds of change for a new generation of farmers. Their latest venture, a partnership with Glen College of Agriculture in Bloemfontein in the Free State, marks a significant step forward in agricultural education.
Under the banner of Senwes’ “On the farm road” initiative, Thobo Trust recently launched its first work-integrated programme for agricultural students at Phoka Feedlot. This programme aims to provide students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the agricultural sector.
Tools for agricultural success
Julias Ramohlabi, head of developing agriculture at Agri Credit Solutions, a credit provider within the Senwes Group, says the programme’s primary objectives revolve around equipping students studying to be employed in agriculture with the essential tools to be successful.
“Through our learnerships, we aim to provide a comprehensive skill set that encompasses theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience,” she says.
According to her, Glen College of Agriculture plays a pivotal role in this initiative with its vision “to serve as a centre of excellence through training and development”.
The college is dedicated to providing its students with practical, day-to-day farm experiences to prepare them for their future careers in farming.
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Financial support empowers agri students
The success of this programme relies on the collaboration of various stakeholders says Ramohlabi. They include Phoka Feedlot and NETSO Farm who are providing students with practical farm-working experience. The Senwes Group is sponsoring the next phase of the students’ work-integrated learning at silos, retail, and equipment branches.
The South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (Sacta) serves as the financial support, providing the necessary funding for the students to participate in the programme.
Andrew Bennet, CEO of Sacta, explains that the organisation was created as the legitimate central institution which administers the breeding levies for all self-pollinated grain and oilseed crops.
“They are committed to ensuring food security through the development of new genetics and technology for open-pollinated crops. We see this programme as a great opportunity to invest in farmers who are going to get their boots dirty. The initiative enables students to become efficient future farmers,” he says.
Ramohlabi says it is important that agricultural students obtain skills development, business acumen, market competitiveness, and workplace preparation.
“We envision this programme as a pivotal step in our ongoing commitment to agricultural education and workforce development.”
According to him, by collaborating with Sacta their aim is to enhance the knowledge and skills of students studying to be employed in agriculture, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities within the industry.
Collaboration breeds success
Meanwhile, Kenneth Mofokeng of Phoka Feedlot says creating better opportunities for the students is important and would not be possible without collaboration.
“If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together,” he says.
As the first group of students embarks on this journey, they represent the future of South Africa’s agricultural sector. Through initiatives like this, Senwes and its partners are nurturing the next generation of farmers, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the industry.
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