The Western Cape’s agricultural sector received a significant boost on Saturday (6 December) as more than 200 qualifications were awarded at the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute (EATI) graduation ceremony.
Dr Ivan Meyer, provincial minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, presided over the event, which saw 101 Bachelor of Agriculture degrees, 62 agricultural diplomas and 59 National Certificates in Plant Production conferred, alongside certificates in Horsemastership and Livestock Farming.
The ceremony highlighted agriculture’s crucial role in the province’s economy, supporting over
200 000 jobs and driving rural development.
Meyer said graduates are instrumental in achieving the province’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which aims to build a R1 trillion economy by 2035.
An employability study revealed promising prospects for EATI graduates, with 68,1% of those aged 18 to 35 more likely to find employment compared to the national average of 41,7%. Six months post-graduation, 42% secured employment, 18% entered internships and 2% became self-employed.
Top performers received special recognition, with Dux awards presented to Kara du Toit and Claudia Monin for Bachelor degrees and Emily Klue for the Diploma programme.
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Meyer highlighted international partnerships enhancing graduate prospects, including the Burgundy Exchange Programme with France and the Bavaria Partnership with Germany, which focuses on climate-smart farming and innovation.
He further urged graduates to champion sustainability and embrace technology, stating: “The future of agriculture – and the future of our province – rests in your capable hands.”
The province is committed to positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture through education and global engagement.
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