Drive to boost young black agriculture graduates
Young people interested in working in our dynamic agri sector are encouraged to apply to study at the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute.
Speaking ahead of Youth Day tomorrow, Alan Winde, MEC of Economic Opportunities, said applications for 2017 close on 30 June.
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is running an awareness campaign in community newspapers across the province to boost the number of young, black applicants and women applicants.
Minister Winde said transformation was central to growing the industry, and improving its competitiveness.
“We are hoping to encourage more black people and more women to enter the sector, as this is the only way we will see real transformation and inclusivity.”
Minister Winde said the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute was looking forward to welcoming a new intake, and to creating the future leaders of agriculture.
“Through Project Khulisa we have set ourselves the goal of adding up to a further 100 000 jobs to the agri-processing sector. Agriculture, with its backward link to agri-processing, is a key focus area for us. This sector presents a significant opportunity to create job opportunities, especially for youth in rural areas. Young people are the future of the sector, so I would like to encourage them to consider a career in agriculture.”
Courses on offer include:
- B.Agric Degree programme
- Higher Certificate in Agriculture
- Diploma in Agriculture
- Diploma in Extension
- Diploma in Cellar Technology
- Equine Studies
- Learnerships (1 year, NQF level 1-4)
- Short skills courses
Minister Winde said the Western Cape had identified skills for young people as a key priority.
“In this financial year, the Western Cape Government has allocated over R9 billion to youth-related projects. We are growing an economy that delivers opportunities for all, and at the same time, we need to grow our skills to ensure they work for the economy. The best place to start is by investing in young people. That is why in this financial year, the Departments of Economic Development and Tourism and Agriculture, will invest R63.2 million and R58.7 million into skills programmes for our young people. As part of our plan to boost the number of graduates available to the agriculture sector, we have set the target of ensuring that 1 500 young people will benefit from our Higher Education and Training programmes over the next three years.”
For more information on how to apply to the Elsenburg Agricultural Institute, contact 021 808 5457 / study@elsenburg.com. Alternatively, visit www.elsenburg.com.
Media enqueries:
Bronwynne Jooste
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
E-mail: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
