A new generation of agricultural trailblazers has stepped into the spotlight as Potchefstroom College of Agriculture proudly celebrated the graduation of 68 students.
The graduation ceremony, held recently at the college in North West, honoured the perseverance and achievements of graduates who are now equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to meet the challenges of modern farming.
College management commended the graduates for their resilience, emphasising that their accomplishments represent both personal triumphs and collective progress for the agricultural community.
One of the graduates, Loatile Lefa Makhetha, who emerged as the overall top performer from the class of 2025, reflected on the factors that shaped his academic journey.
He attributed his success to a disciplined commitment to learning, including attentive participation in lectures, consistent engagement with peers, and collaborative study.
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Hands-on learning from the best
Makhetha emphasised the indispensable role of the college’s lecturers, acknowledging their dedication to nurturing both academic excellence and professional readiness. He noted that their guidance extended beyond the classroom, instilling values of perseverance, integrity, and innovation.
“I want to thank the academic staff of the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture. They have done their best to prepare us for the world out there,” he said.
Speaking at the ceremony, MEC of agriculture Madoda Sambatha congratulated the students, academic staff, and farming community who opened their farms for student practicals.
“I want to thank the hard work of the academic staff and management in ensuring that graduates leave here well-trained with the skills to better themselves and their communities. I also express my appreciation to all the farmers who selflessly made their farms available for practical training. Practical exposure is the backbone of agricultural education.
“When theory meets practice, we produce competent, confident, and industry-ready graduates. Government cannot do it alone; partnerships with farmers, unions, industry bodies, and communities are essential to building a North West province that works for all,” Sambatha said.
To the class of 2025, MEC Sambatha offered words of encouragement: “The future of agriculture is now in your hands. Go out there and immerse yourselves in the industry.”
Applications for the 2027 intake will open on 1 April 2026 and close at the end of October. This opportunity is extended to prospective students at both Taung College of Agriculture and Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.
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