AgriSETA Learnerships 2025: Skills Development for South Africa’s Agricultural Workforce
Introduction: Empowering South Africa’s Agricultural Sector through AgriSETA Learnerships
Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most essential sectors, both for economic development and food security. However, like many industries, it faces challenges—skills shortages, youth unemployment, and the need for continuous upskilling. To address these challenges, AgriSETA Learnerships were developed as a strategic tool to grow talent, build occupational competence, and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world agricultural practice.
This guide explores everything you need to know about AgriSETA Learnerships in 2025—from how they work, who qualifies, and what benefits they offer, to how they support both learners and employers. Whether you’re a young job-seeker or an agricultural business looking to grow your workforce, this detailed guide offers transparent, accurate, and up-to-date information aligned with Google AdSense and Discovery content standards.
What Is the AgriSETA Learnership Programme?
The AgriSETA Learnership Programme is a structured, sector-based education and training programme that integrates classroom-based learning with practical work experience in agriculture. These programmes are formally registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Upon successful completion, participants receive a nationally recognised qualification that confirms their skills in a specific agricultural field—helping to boost employability and professional credibility.
Core Elements of an AgriSETA Learnership:
- Theoretical Training (at an accredited training provider)
- Workplace Experience (with a participating employer)
- National Qualification (registered with SAQA)
Purpose of AgriSETA Learnerships: Closing the Skills Gap in Agriculture
The main goal of AgriSETA learnerships is to address the critical skills shortage in the agricultural sector. South Africa faces growing demand for skilled workers in areas such as crop production, livestock management, agribusiness, food processing, and environmental sustainability.
These learnerships aim to:
- Improve productivity and job-readiness of workers
- Equip youth with technical agricultural skills
- Promote transformation and development within rural communities
- Create a pipeline of trained professionals for agri-businesses
Quote from AgriSETA: “Through skills development, we aim to empower individuals and uplift entire communities, especially in rural areas where agriculture is the primary economic driver.”
Who Qualifies for AgriSETA Learnerships?
AgriSETA learnerships are open to both unemployed and employed individuals in the agricultural sector. The programme caters to a wide range of candidates, from school leavers to farmworkers, technical staff, and agri-entrepreneurs.
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- South African citizen
- Age typically between 18–35
- Minimum Grade 10 (some programmes require Matric/NQF Level 4)
- Interest in the agricultural sector
- Not currently enrolled in another full-time study programme
Two Main Learner Categories:
- Unemployed learners – Seeking work and funded through AgriSETA with stipends.
- Employed learners – Already working in agriculture, upskilled through employer-led training.
Duration and Structure of Learnerships
Most AgriSETA learnerships run for 12 months, although the duration can vary depending on the specific qualification or training objective.
Programme Structure:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Theory | Classroom-based training (20–30%) |
| Workplace Practice | On-site job experience with a registered employer (70–80%) |
| Assessment | Final exams, practical evaluations, and portfolio of evidence |
At the end of the programme, learners receive a certificate of competence recognised across South Africa.
Funding and Financial Support
AgriSETA provides comprehensive funding for learnerships through grants allocated to employers and training providers. These funds cover:
- Stipends for unemployed learners (to cover travel, meals, and living expenses)
- Training materials
- Assessment and moderation
- Training provider fees
- Employer subsidies (for work-integrated learning)
Note: Learners do not pay to join AgriSETA learnerships. If you’re asked to pay for placement, it’s likely a scam. Only accredited providers and registered employers may offer these programmes.
Key Benefits of AgriSETA Learnerships
For Learners:
- Receive a nationally recognised qualification
- Gain practical, hands-on experience in agriculture
- Earn a monthly stipend (for unemployed learners)
- Improve your job prospects and CV
- Develop technical and soft skills
For Employers:
- Access to a skilled and qualified workforce
- Potential grant funding from AgriSETA
- Improved productivity and compliance with B-BBEE requirements
- Opportunity to identify and retain top-performing learners
Areas of Specialisation Covered by AgriSETA
AgriSETA learnerships are offered across multiple sectors of the agricultural value chain, including both primary production and agri-processing.
Common Learnership Fields Include:
- Animal Production (e.g., livestock, poultry)
- Plant Production (e.g., grain, fruit, vegetables)
- Mixed Farming Systems
- Abattoir Processing
- Pest Management and Control
- Agro-processing and Food Technology
- Grain Handling and Storage
- Horticulture and Nursery Practices
- Farm Equipment Maintenance
AgriSETA Accreditation and Quality Assurance
To ensure high-quality training, AgriSETA accredits training providers who deliver the theoretical component of learnerships. These providers must meet strict standards related to facilities, trainer qualifications, learning materials, and outcomes.
All programmes must be:
- SAQA-registered
- NQF-aligned
- Delivered by accredited providers
- Assessed and moderated under SETA guidelines
To check if a training provider is accredited, visit the AgriSETA website at www.agriseta.co.za.
How to Apply for an AgriSETA Learnership in 2025
Applying for an AgriSETA learnership is a straightforward process, but it requires preparation and research.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Identify Your Area of Interest
Decide on the field you’d like to pursue (e.g., animal production, food processing, etc.) - Search for Opportunities
- Visit the AgriSETA website or official government pages.
- Check job boards like Makoyajobs.co.za, Careers24, or Indeed.co.za
- Monitor local agricultural co-operatives, community notices, and municipal job fairs
- Check Entry Requirements
Confirm that you meet the minimum qualification and age criteria. - Prepare Your Documents
- South African ID (certified)
- Matric or latest school certificate (certified)
- Updated CV
- Motivation Letter (explaining your interest in agriculture)
- Submit Application
Follow instructions provided in the advert. Applications can be emailed, delivered by hand, or submitted online depending on the programme. - Attend Interviews or Assessments
If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview or a selection test.
To upload your CV to AgriSETA, you can use the Connect ME app, which matches job seekers with employers in the agricultural sector. Alternatively, you can email your CV and a cover letter to Recruitment@agriseta.co.za
Tips for a Successful Learnership Application
- Apply early – Programmes fill up fast, and deadlines vary.
- Customise your CV – Tailor it to the agriculture sector.
- Be honest and enthusiastic – Show genuine passion for agriculture.
- Use correct subject lines – If applying via email, follow submission rules carefully.
- Don’t pay any fees – Legitimate learnerships are fully funded by AgriSETA.
Real-World Example: Success Through AgriSETA
Noluthando’s Story
Noluthando, a 23-year-old from Eastern Cape, joined an AgriSETA learnership in fruit packing and quality grading. Over 12 months, she gained workplace experience in a commercial citrus packhouse while attending weekly classes at an accredited training centre. Upon completion, she was offered permanent employment and is now training new recruits.
Conclusion: Your Future Grows Here
The AgriSETA Learnership Programme offers more than just skills—it provides a pathway to employment, empowerment, and economic transformation in rural and urban communities alike. By bridging the gap between education and employment, it contributes to a more resilient and skilled agricultural workforce in South Africa.
If you’re passionate about agriculture and want to build a sustainable future for yourself, an AgriSETA learnership is your opportunity to start growing—both literally and professionally.
Quick Resources for AgriSETA Learnerships 2025:
- 🔗 AgriSETA Official Website
- 📩 Apply via trusted portals: Makoyajobs.co.za, Careers24, Indeed
- 📚 Find a full SETA list here: DHET SETA Directory
