The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will in collaboration with Black African Young Farmers (BAYOFA) and Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (YARD), host the inaugural Provincial Youth Development Symposium at Mmabatho Convention Centre, from 15 to 17 July 2013.
The objectives of this three-day long symposium are amongst others, to promote the importance of agricultural entrepreneurship among the youth, examine the importance of self-employment, assess the current status of youth-run enterprises and identify challenges faced by the youth entrepreneurs.
Dubbed “Fostering the next generation of Agriculturalists for sustainable development”, the symposium is expected to be attended by 200 active young farmers from across the North West province and stakeholders from the agricultural sector.
Specialists and Academics in the field of agriculture, entrepreneurial development and commercialisation will present papers aimed at enlightening young farmers about the growth opportunities available in the sector.
The MEC for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono, who pronounced the hosting of this youth symposium during the tabling of the Departmental Policy and Budget Vote Speech in May this year, says it is expected of young farmers to take advantage of the platform created through the hosting of this event.
“This engagement will guide young farmers on how to drive their agricultural passion, while successfully contributing towards addressing issues of job creation, economic development and food production,” said the MEC Mohono.
Members of the media are invited to the youth symposium that will be held as follows:
Date: 15 to 17 July 2013
Venue: Kgora Farmer Training Centre – Ramatlabama, Mahikeng
Time: 08h00 to 17h00
Enquiries:
Bonolo Mohlakoana, Communication Services Directorate
Dept of Agriculture & Rural Development
Tel: 018 389 5719 / 5684
Cell: 082 901 2435
Fax: 018 384 4571
E-mail: Bmohlakoana@nwpg.gov.za or mohlakoana.bonolo@gmail.com
