The Western Cape Department of Agriculture recently hosted a school programme aimed at introducing learners to the opportunities within the sector at the annual Nampo Cape held in Bredasdorp.
The programme featured insights from various experts in the field, highlighting the diversity of the sector and the importance of young people shaping the future of agriculture in the country.
Breaking misconceptions about farming
Desiree Chinsamy-Dampie, head of student administration at Elsenburg, encouraged learners with a lively session that challenged traditional views of farming being limited to planting and livestock.
Chinsamy-Dampie told Farmer’s Weekly that it was important for learners to believe that they could have a future in farming.
“[Encouraging the youth to join agriculture is important] to ensure food security, protect our planet, and secure a better future [for us all]. Agriculture gives [learners] the chance to work with both nature and technology. Today, it’s about drones, sensors, and artificial intelligence as much as it’s about soil and crops,” she said.
She added that Elsenburg, South Africa’s oldest agricultural training institution, was founded in 1898, and offers students a variety of choice when it comes to furthering their education. She said that these programmes equip students to become farm managers, entrepreneurs, agricultural researchers, and technical specialists.
“The sector is diverse and constantly evolving. That’s why we need young, innovative people to help agriculture grow,” she said.
Agriculture beyond the farm
Monika Basson, coordinator for undergraduate recruitment and marketing at Stellenbosch University, told Farmer’s Weekly that agriculture wasn’t only about becoming a farmer.
“There are opportunities across logistics, exports, marketing, consumer research, retail, and wholesale,” she said.
She added that agriculture was inclusive.
“There’s a place for everyone in agriculture, no matter your background, religion, gender, or culture. It’s a sector where your unique skills and personality can thrive,” she said.
Learning from industry experts
During the event, learners were also offered insights from the National Wool Growers’ Association (NWGA).
NWGA production advisor Jannie Fourie spoke about the challenges and opportunities in wool production. He explained how sustainability, climate change, and global market shifts shape the industry, but also how wool’s unique properties make it a valuable product across fashion, textiles, and even space exploration.
Inspiring the next generation
By the end of the session, many learners left with a new perspective: agriculture is not just a career option, it is a dynamic field that combines science, technology, and business to solve global challenges.
