Introduction
If you’ve ever dreamed of working the land, learning modern farming methods, and building a sustainable career in agriculture, the AFGRI Farm Learnership 2025/2026 could be your golden opportunity.
This transformative initiative by AFGRI Farmer Development (AFD) plays a vital role in empowering South African youth and historically disadvantaged communities with practical agricultural training and professional farming skills.
The AFGRI Farm Learnership for the 2025/2026 intake is a 12-month agricultural training programme that blends hands-on experience with theoretical learning, preparing learners for rewarding careers in both crop and animal production. It is an ideal pathway for those who want to make a real contribution to South Africa’s agricultural growth and food security.
Hosted at AFGRI’s Vastfontein Farm in Pretoria North, the learnership exposes participants to real-life farming environments, mentorship by experienced professionals, and community development initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture.
About AFGRI Farmer Development
AFGRI Farmer Development (AFD) is a leading agricultural development organization in South Africa, dedicated to transforming rural communities and supporting food security across the country. Through initiatives such as the Farm Learnership at AFGRI, the organization equips learners with both technical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring they graduate with valuable, job-ready farming and business skills.
AFGRI’s programmes are nationally recognized for their quality, inclusivity, and strong focus on real-world agricultural application. Working closely with government departments, rural farmers, and community organizations, AFGRI ensures that its development efforts make a measurable impact across South Africa.
The Farm Learnership at AFGRI 2025/2026 is not just a training course—it’s a career pathway. Graduates gain the skills to pursue roles in farm management, crop and animal production, agribusiness operations, and even entrepreneurship within the agricultural industry.
Purpose of the AFGRI Farm Learnership
The core purpose of this learnership is to bridge the agricultural skills gap in South Africa. Agriculture remains one of the nation’s most crucial economic sectors, yet many young people lack access to quality training and exposure to modern farming methods. AFGRI’s learnership programme directly addresses this by offering structured, industry-aligned training.
Through the programme, learners gain expertise in:
- Crop and animal production techniques
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices
- Agricultural business and financial management
- Farm teamwork, communication, and leadership
- Occupational health, safety, and environmental awareness
Upon completion, learners are well-prepared to enter the agricultural workforce, pursue further education, or start their own farming operations.
Programme Details
- Location: Vastfontein Farm, Pretoria North, Gauteng
- Duration: 12 months (Fixed-Term Learnership Contract)
- Closing Date: 19 November 2025
The AFGRI Farm Learnership runs for a full year, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Participants gain hands-on experience in daily farm operations, attend educational sessions led by agricultural experts, and receive mentorship from AFGRI professionals.
Successful applicants will sign a 12-month learnership contract with AFGRI Farmer Development, during which they’ll be immersed in a professional farming environment focused on technology-driven, sustainable practices.
Key Learning Areas
The learnership provides a complete overview of modern farming practices through the following key modules:
- Crop Production: Land preparation, planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting using sustainable methods.
- Animal Production: Livestock management, breeding, feeding, and disease prevention guided by agricultural experts.
- Farm Management: Record-keeping, budgeting, and efficient resource management for profitable farm operations.
- Agricultural Equipment Operation: Safe handling and maintenance of machinery and tools used in farming.
- Environmental Sustainability: Implementing eco-friendly farming techniques that protect natural resources.
- Health and Safety: Understanding workplace safety standards to maintain a secure and efficient work environment.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for the learnership:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Hold a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Show a strong interest in agriculture and farming
- Be willing to work outdoors and engage in manual farm tasks
- Preference will be given to candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and persons with disabilities
Who Should Apply
The AFGRI Farm Learnership is ideal for:
- Young people seeking their first agricultural work experience
- Matriculants planning to build a career in farming
- Unemployed individuals eager to gain practical agricultural skills
- Aspiring farmers interested in starting their own farms
- Women and people with disabilities, in line with AFGRI’s inclusivity and empowerment goals
Benefits of the AFGRI Farm Learnership
Participants in the AFGRI Farm Learnership gain access to numerous advantages, such as:
- Practical, hands-on training in modern farming techniques
- Nationally recognized agricultural qualification
- Exposure to advanced farming technology and sustainability models
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced agricultural professionals
- Improved employability and potential career growth in agriculture
- Personal development through teamwork, discipline, and leadership
Commitment to Employment Equity & POPIA
AFGRI adheres to South Africa’s Employment Equity Policy, ensuring fair representation and equal opportunity for all applicants. The programme strongly encourages applications from historically disadvantaged groups, women, and persons with disabilities.
In compliance with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act), all applicant data is processed lawfully and securely. Candidates can refer to AFGRI’s HR Processing Notice at www.agh.co.za for more details.
Why Choose AFGRI
The AFGRI Farm Learnership is one of the most respected agricultural training programmes in South Africa. Unlike short-term courses, this structured, accredited programme offers both academic learning and hands-on practical exposure. Graduates emerge as confident, skilled, and employable agricultural professionals.
With AFGRI’s vast national network, learners gain insights into both commercial and small-scale farming operations, preparing them for success across diverse agricultural environments.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of the AFGRI Learnership can pursue:
- Employment as farm assistants, production supervisors, or livestock caretakers
- Further studies in agriculture, agribusiness, or farm management
- Entrepreneurial ventures in small-scale or community farming
- Internships or advanced learnerships within AFGRI or similar agricultural organizations
This learnership acts as a strong foundation for a lifelong and fulfilling career in agriculture.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: October 2026
- Closing Date: 19 November 2026
- Programme Duration: 12 months (2025/2026 Intake)
- Location: Vastfontein Farm, Pretoria North
Submit your application early to secure your spot in this highly competitive programme.
How to Apply for the AFGRI Farm Learnership 2025/2026
Follow these simple steps to apply:
- Visit the official AFGRI Group website: www.agh.co.za
- Navigate to the Careers or Learnerships section.
- Find the Farm Learnership 2025/2026 listing.
- Click on “Apply Now”.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and educational information.
- Upload required documents — ID, qualifications, and CV.
- Submit your application before 19 November 2026.
Note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within 30 days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
The AFGRI Farm Learnership 2025/2026 is more than just a training programme — it’s an opportunity to transform your passion for farming into a lifelong profession. Whether you dream of managing a large-scale farm, running your own agribusiness, or improving rural food systems, this learnership gives you the tools to succeed.
With AFGRI’s unmatched reputation for excellence and its commitment to sustainable agriculture, this programme is a stepping stone toward a brighter, greener, and more prosperous future.
Don’t miss out — apply today and start your journey with AFGRI!
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