In an effort to enhance the national Unemployed Agricultural Graduates Entrepreneurial Development Programme and streamline the placement of agricultural graduates by matching them with registered farms, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has introduced a pioneering farmer database.
This initiative, while tied to the nationally-run Unemployed Agricultural Graduates Entrepreneurial Development Programme, marks the first time a province has taken a proactive, structured step to improve graduate placements by collecting accurate data from farmers across the region.
While the programme is available nationwide, North West’s approach stands out by creating a centralised database to facilitate efficient matching between graduates and potential host farms.
The Unemployed Agricultural Graduates Entrepreneurial Development Programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and real-world farming experience.
Graduates are placed on working farms for hands-on training, skills development, and mentorship, while also boosting operational capacity for the host farmers.
It is a two-pronged approach to combatting youth unemployment and under-resourced farms, promoting both skills development and productivity. Available in all provinces, the programme is coordinated by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development and supported by provincial agricultural departments.
While the national programme continues to provide opportunities for graduates in other provinces, the North West’s farmer registration drive introduces a replicable model that could transform internship placement systems across South Africa.
The department has urged other provinces to create their own databases to better match graduates with appropriate farms, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
North West Agriculture MEC Madoda Sambatha, speaking on the back of the provinces 2025 Extension and Advisory Services Conference, said the database is more than just an administrative tool; it is a strategic vehicle for transformation.
“Farmer participation is key to the success of this programme. We want to see every farm become a platform for growth, not only for its productivity, but also for nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders,” Sambatha said.
By registering, farmers not only contribute to youth development, but also benefit from the infusion of fresh skills and innovative perspectives brought by motivated interns.
Calling on all farmers in the province to register, Sambatha added: “By registering, farmers are helping shape the future of the sector, offering mentorship and gaining access to motivated interns who bring fresh skills and innovation to the field.”
Farms that register will be considered for the 2025/2026 internship cycle and serve as accredited training sites.
Farmers in North West can complete the online registration form at dard.nwpg.gov.za.
The department assured that all personal and business information provided will remain confidential and will only be used to inform future planning and service delivery.
For more information, farmers are encouraged to visit the department’s website or contact their nearest agricultural office.
