In a momentous step towards advancing agricultural expertise in South Africa, Food For Mzansi, Agda, De Beers and Agri Skills Transfer have invested R1.89 million in scholarships for 21 deserving individuals.
These scholarships, each valued at R90 000, will enable them to earn two-year national diplomas in either plant or animal production through Agri Skills Transfer. From Steinkopf in the Northern Cape to Polokwane in Limpopo, the classes are fully remote, allowing students to participate from wherever they are.
Food For Mzansi co-founder Ivor Price expressed his pride in selecting recipients, noting the impressive pool of applicants.
“We received nearly 900 applications, and while we wish we could have helped more, we are proud of the 21 who have been selected,” he said. “These individuals embody the hope and growth of South African agriculture. We look forward to seeing them thrive in their studies and contribute to the future of farming in our country.”
Advancing farming practices
Agda CEO Leona Archary expressed particular pride in the scholarship recipients from Limpopo, a province where Agda, in partnership with De Beers, has made significant strides through the creation of the Blouberg Agri-Services Hub.
This partnership is closely aligned with the ongoing work on agricultural strategy and value chain development in the province, which is further supported by the scholarship programme.
“Many of the recipients are full-time potato farmers, and now these hardworking individuals will have the opportunity to advance their practices with formal qualifications,” said Archary. “This will not only elevate their contributions to the sector but also sets the stage for even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Related stories
- Break down the silos in agriculture, urges Phosa at Agda AGM
- Agri Skills Transfer fostering a sustainable future for farmers
Laurika du Bois, marketing manager at Agri Skills Transfer, highlighted the significance of the scholarship programme.
She said, “We are excited to welcome these 21 students into our programme, where they will develop the skills and knowledge needed to take their agricultural careers to the next level. With remote learning, these scholars can balance their studies with their ongoing farming activities, making education more accessible to a diverse group of people across the country.”
Meet the scholars
Among the scholarship recipients are a mix of full-time farmers and aspiring agricultural professionals:
- Zolelwa Bala (35) from Witbank, Mpumalanga, works at his uncle’s butchery on weekends and assists with cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs on the family farm.
- Llewellyn Martinus (27) from Jacobsdal, Free State, is a full-time poultry farmer.
- Ontisitse Seane (21) from Kuruman, Northern Cape, is currently studying BSc Agric (Animal Science).
- Denisel Leens (19) from Citrusdal, Clanwilliam, works with the Cederberg Matzikama Aids Network, raising awareness about gender-based violence in her community.
- Tlhobogang Mpete (36) from Rustenburg, North West, is a full-time vegetable farmer.
- Chade van Wyk (19) from Steinkopf, Northern Cape, is a hands-on herdswoman helping with sheep and goats on a local farm.
- Siphosethu Nguta (28) from Qonce, Eastern Cape, is currently planting vegetables and nurturing a thriving agricultural future.
- Palesa Seku (31) from Soweto, Gauteng, is a part-time vegetable farmer.
- Makgosi Tlhabane (29) from Brits, North West, is a part-time BSc Agric (Animal Science) student seeking work in animal production.
- Lerato Bopape (23) from Matatiele, Eastern Cape, is a full-time law student at Unisa while also growing and selling fresh vegetables.
- Emanuel Matonsi (26) from Elukwatini, Mpumalanga, is a full-time cattle farmer.
- Limpopo is well-represented with multiple students already making a significant contribution to potato farming. Ngoako Masipa (34), Mokgobu Cynthia (31), and Motibane Malakiya (31), are from Bochum. Sam Sebaiwa (28) and Witness Madinketja (31) are from Polokwane, and Mulaudzi Margaret (35), Maphosa Given (27), Makhado Tshau (24), and Munyai Philip (33) and Magina Maxwell (43) are from Musina.
These dedicated individuals are now set to expand their agricultural knowledge and skills, helping to shape the future of South Africa’s farming sector.
READ NEXT: Limpopo communal farmer reaps crossbreeding success
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
