Agricultural training institution Agri Skills Transfer, based in Groenkloof, Pretoria, offers National Diploma courses in animal and plant production, combining academic learning with practical training at its Cullinan Farm Campus.
Bridging the gap between theory and practice
At its Cullinan Farm Campus, Agri Skills Transfer combines academic learning with hands-on experience in crop and livestock production, helping them develop skills relevant to commercial farming.
The institution works with industry partners, including DanBred in pig production and Design Biologix in beef and dairy cattle. It is also developing relationships with organisations such as the Pig Improvement Company and the supplier of poultry services, Bierman Agri.
Expanding the offering for 2027
Agri Skills Transfer is expanding its training offering in 2027 with a Quality Council for Trades and Occupations Higher Occupational Certificate in Mixed Crop and Livestock Farming (NQF Level 5), as well as Game and Wildlife Management.
The expansion will also include new buildings and residential facilities ahead of the new academic year.
“The future of agriculture belongs to people who can combine knowledge with practical ability and understand the realities of production,” Laurika du Bois, marketing and communications manager at Agri Skills Transfer, said at the South African Agricultural Awards ceremony on 16 October.
A pathway into the agriculture sector
The institution is introducing placement guarantees for second-year students enrolled in its National Diploma programmes in animal and plant production. The initiative is supported by agreements with farms that will host students for workplace experience relevant to their studies.
The objective is to place students in environments where they can apply what they’ve learnt, develop practical skills, and gain a better understanding of commercial farming operations. This experience can also help students establish professional networks and familiarise themselves with the working conditions of the agriculture sector before completing their qualifications.
Industry engagement also extends beyond workplace placements. Guest lecturers share additional knowledge and experience, while visits to agricultural events such as Nampo give students opportunities to encounter companies, equipment, technologies, and production systems used across the sector.
More than a qualification
The 2027 student offering combines formal studies with practical equipment, clothing, accommodation, meals, and additional sector-related opportunities.
Students will receive personal protective equipment, including a branded jacket and trousers, safety boots, gumboots, a field hat, safety goggles, gloves, and dust masks. The package also includes a branded field shirt for Nampo and other events, as well as three branded work shirts for practical training.
Course materials are included, along with a toolbox containing essential farm tools. The package also includes short courses valued at more than R40 000, according to the institution, providing additional learning opportunities for the students alongside their core qualifications.
Residential students will have access to dormitory-style accommodation with en-suite amenities and a kitchenette. Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and meals from Monday to Sunday are also included.
Prospective students can find more information at agriskills.net, or they can phone Agri Skills Transfer on 012 002 3723 or WhatsApp 076 203 3816.
