MAHIKENG MAIL - POTCHEFSTROOM: The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, through the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, in partnership with the North West Farmers’ Association of South Africa (NWAFASA), AgriSETA, and BLC Academy, proudly hosted a first-of-its-kind historic certification ceremony last week Wednesday, at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.
A total of 197 emerging farmers were certified following intensive training programmes in raising cattle, goats, grain, poultry and horticulture.
This initiative is a significant step towards equipping farmers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to establish and grow sustainable and productive agricultural enterprises.
The certification took into account the challenges faced; it is for this reason that the department has collaborated with industries, both public and private, as well as farmer organisations and representatives, to further expose learners to other areas of opportunities, such as the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Program (CASP) funding models available.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla, emphasised the department’s commitment to working in a close partnership with all stakeholders for the betterment of the performance of the sector. “This programme demonstrates our collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient agricultural sector that ensures food security and drives rural economic development,” said the HoD.
NWAFASA chairperson, Andrew Aphane, extended his heartfelt appreciation to AgriSETA for their generous sponsorship, BLC as the training partner and the department for its unwavering support in advancing the empowerment of emerging farmers.
“This partnership has been instrumental in equipping our farmers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to grow sustainable and productive agricultural enterprises,” said Aphane.
