AFGRI Farmer Development has announced its 2026/2027 learnership programme, inviting unemployed South African matriculants to apply for practical farming training. This 12-month programme provides 14 chances to gain hands-on experience in both crop and animal farming at Vastfontein Training Farm in Pretoria North, Gauteng.
Programme Overview
The AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership is designed to equip participants with foundational agricultural skills through a mix of on-the-job activities and theoretical instruction. Enrollees will engage in farm operations involving crop cultivation and livestock care, contributing to team projects and daily farm tasks. The training aims to build competencies that support future agricultural careers.
Who Can Apply?
- South African citizens who have completed Grade 12 (Matric) or an equivalent qualification
- Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application
- Preference will be given to women and persons with disabilities
There is no mandatory previous agricultural work experience or tertiary qualification required, making this suitable for individuals new to farming.
Key Requirements
- South African citizenship
- Completed Grade 12/Matric or recognized equivalent
- Willingness to commit to full-time participation in the 12-month learnership
- Ability to attend practical training at Vastfontein Farm in Pretoria North
Location and Duration
The programme will run for 12 months at Vastfontein Training Farm, located in Pretoria North, Gauteng Province. Participants should be prepared to attend onsite training and manage any personal arrangements for accommodation or transport, as these are not specified by AFGRI.
Remuneration
Remuneration is described as market-related, but specific stipend amounts have not been disclosed. Applicants should clarify payment details upon selection.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 28 October 2026. Late submissions may not be considered.
What to Expect from the Learnership
Participants will develop skills in:
- Crop production, including soil preparation, seed selection, irrigation, pest and disease management, and harvesting
- Animal production and livestock care, focusing on feeding, welfare, hygiene, and disease prevention
- Workplace competencies such as teamwork, communication, time management, and project collaboration
This blend of practical and classroom-based learning provides a foundation for exploring various agricultural careers, such as farm supervision, technical roles, or entrepreneurship.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should apply online through AFGRI’s official recruitment portal. The application interface provides all necessary submission steps and requirements.
You can access the application page here: Apply online for the AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership Programme 2026/2027.
Additional Resources
Applicants interested in further agricultural learning opportunities can explore the sector’s training authority through the official AgriSETA website for insights on related qualifications and skills development: AgriSETA official site.
Considerations Before Applying
This learnership is a fixed-term training programme and does not guarantee employment after completion. Candidates should evaluate their capacity to relocate or commute to Pretoria North and remain committed for the entire programme period. It’s also beneficial to prepare a well-structured CV emphasizing education, relevant skills, and any practical experience to enhance chances of selection.
