The graduates are part of the Academy ’ s Farmer Development Programme , which offers courses accredited by AgriSETA in terms of the National Qualifications Framework ( NQF ). All 18 graduates received their NQF2 qualification in Mixed Farming Practice .
The Farmer Development Programme is designed to provide new generation farmers and students with theoretical , practical , and managerial knowledge to pursue a career in agriculture .
Kaap Agri is one of only a few organisations that provides free , top quality academic training to new generation farmers , offering students NQF2 , NQF3 and NQ4 qualifications , thereby providing a learning pathway into commercial agriculture . Kaap Agri aims to use this programme to continue uplifting rural communities by means of education .
Elize Gerda Beukes , a 23-yearold farmer from Keimoes , graduated top of the class this year . She farms with grapes from which she produces raisins and she also has boer goats , sheep , and pigs .
Whilst farming is in her blood , Elize sought the benefits of a formal qualification in agriculture .
“ I have been involved in farming from a very young age . My parents are farmers , and I learned a lot from them but the technical skills and knowledge that I gained at Kaap Agri Academy gave me a much better , broader understanding of farming . My first formal qualification in agriculture is the highlight of my farming career so far ,” says Elize .
Top of the class graduate , Elize Gerda Beukes , with Kaap Agri ’ s CEO , Sean Walsh
During the ceremony , graduates were addressed by alumni of the programme who confirmed the value of the course in terms of skills development , networking opportunities and business support .
Kaap Agri graduates have pursued various agri-related careers .
Renshia Manuel , who graduated at the top of her class in 2020 , owns an urban farming and nursery business in Hanover Park , Cape Town . “ I started my business
44 MARKtoe ! Februarie 2023