Start Your Career in Agriculture: A Simple Guide to AgriSeta Learning Programme
Are you a recent graduate dreaming of a meaningful career in agriculture, agri-business, or rural development? You’re not alone. With rising interest in food security, sustainable farming, and green jobs, agriculture has become more than just planting crops—it’s a future-focused industry filled with innovation and purpose.
The AgriSeta Learning Programme and Projects Internship Programme offers young South Africans a real opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to the agricultural transformation of the country. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility requirements to application steps—so you can take the next step with confidence.
What Is the AgriSeta Learning Programme?
The Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSeta) developed this internship programme as part of its Learning Programmes and Projects division. It’s not just another skills course—it’s a carefully structured programme designed to give unemployed graduates practical work experience in real agricultural environments.
Interns are placed with both public and private organisations across South Africa’s agricultural value chain. Whether it’s commercial farms, agro-processing companies, or government departments, these placements offer hands-on exposure that bridges the gap between theory and practice.
Why It Matters:
South Africa’s National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS) emphasizes the need to create a skilled and capable workforce. The AgriSeta internship directly supports this goal by ensuring that youth entering the sector are not just academically trained but also workplace-ready.
Who Is This Programme For?
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, here’s a simple checklist. You must:
- ✅ Be a South African citizen
- ✅ Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- ✅ Hold a Grade 12 certificate
- ✅ Possess an N6 Certificate in Management Assistance, Public Management, or a related field
- ✅ Be currently unemployed
- ✅ Not be enrolled in any other internship or learnership
- ✅ Be willing to commit to a 24-month contract
No previous work experience is required—this programme is specifically designed for fresh graduates.
What Can You Expect?
Imagine stepping into a world where every day brings new learning experiences. Whether you’re working on a sustainable farming project, assisting with agro-policy implementation, or gaining insights into agribusiness operations, this internship promises variety, challenge, and growth.
Areas of Exposure Include:
- Farm and crop management
- Food safety and compliance
- Agro-processing
- Research and development
- Rural development planning
- Policy design and implementation
Each intern is assigned a mentor who offers guidance, support, and feedback throughout the internship. You’ll also receive a monthly stipend to help cover transport and basic living costs—making the programme accessible to all, regardless of your financial background.
Where Will You Be Placed?
AgriSeta partners with a wide range of host employers, including:
- 🌿 Government Departments, such as the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)
- 🧪 Research Institutions focusing on soil science, biotechnology, and food security
- 🚜 Commercial Farms that focus on large-scale crop or livestock production
- 🏭 Agro-processing Companies transforming raw agricultural products into finished goods
These organisations are carefully selected to offer meaningful work experience aligned with national development priorities.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying to AgriSeta is straightforward, but it’s important to ensure your documents are complete and well-prepared.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- An Updated CV
- Include your contact details, education history, and any short courses or volunteer work.
- A Motivational Cover Letter
- Explain why you’re passionate about agriculture and how you’ll benefit from the internship.
- Certified Copies of Your Certificates
- This includes your Grade 12 and N6 certificates.
Submission:
- Email your full application to: 📩 Recruitment@agriseta.co.za
⏰ Closing Date: 21 July 2025
📝 Enquiries: Tshepiso@agriseta.co.za
DOWNLOAD THE AGRISETA LEARNING PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME ADVERT HERE
Real Impact: Why This Internship Is More Than Just Work Experience
In a world where job opportunities are often limited, especially for young graduates, this internship offers more than just experience—it offers purpose.
Agriculture is the backbone of South Africa’s economy. With global challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and youth unemployment, the need for a new generation of agricultural professionals has never been greater.
REF: LEARNING PROGRAMME
AgriSeta empowers young professionals to step up as problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders in this space.
“This programme isn’t about just finding a job—it’s about creating a career and becoming part of something bigger.”
— AgriSeta Spokesperson
How AgriSeta Supports National Growth
The AgriSeta internship directly supports South Africa’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) by investing in human capital. Through structured workplace learning, the programme contributes to:
- ✅ Reducing youth unemployment
- ✅ Boosting food production and rural development
- ✅ Enhancing sustainability in farming
- ✅ Improving the competitiveness of agri-enterprises
It’s a win-win: graduates gain employable skills, while the sector gets a much-needed talent pipeline.
Meet Lerato: A Success Story
Lerato Matlala, a 25-year-old graduate from Limpopo, joined the programme in 2022 with a qualification in Public Management. She was placed on a commercial citrus farm where she worked with farm managers, learning about compliance and logistics.
“At first, I thought farming was just about planting and harvesting. But now, I see the entire system—from paperwork to exports. This internship changed how I see agriculture. It made me feel like I belong in this space.”
Today, Lerato works as a junior compliance officer in the same company.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. Can I apply if I already did another internship before?
If it was not with AgriSeta and you meet the rest of the criteria (especially being unemployed and not currently enrolled), you may still be eligible.
2. What is the stipend amount?
While it varies slightly depending on host placement, the stipend typically covers transport and basic needs. Think of it as a support mechanism—not a full salary.
3. Is relocation required?
Possibly. Some placements may be in rural or semi-urban areas. Be prepared to travel or relocate if needed.
4. Can I choose where I’m placed?
AgriSeta considers your location and qualifications but cannot guarantee specific placements.
Our Final Thoughts: This Is Your Launchpad
If you’re driven by a passion for agriculture, sustainability, or rural innovation, then the AgriSeta Internship Programme is a golden opportunity. It’s more than just a career starter—it’s your chance to contribute to one of South Africa’s most essential sectors.
From gaining real-world skills to building professional networks and making an impact, the journey you begin here could lead to lasting growth—not just for you, but for your community and country.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply:
✅ South African citizen (18–35 years old)
✅ Grade 12 + N6 in relevant field
✅ Unemployed and not in another programme
✅ Willing to commit to 24 months
✅ Ready to submit your documents before 21 July 2025
📧 Submit to: Recruitment@agriseta.co.za
📆 Deadline: 21 July 2025
📞 Enquiries: Tshepiso@agriseta.co.za
