RecruitAgri is a NPO that facilitates practical farming experience for agricultural graduates in the Lowveld region.
The organization was started by three independent farmers in the Lowveld region – GA Chalkley Estates (Pty) Ltd, Agristar Holdings (Pty) Ltd and Lochaber (Pty) Ltd and is now supported by various businesses. Our aim is to expose agriculture graduates to different farming practices through a one year structured practical farming course.
The practical farming experience is in macadamias, avocados and kiwis, with an aim to increasing the network and to open employment opportunities to the graduates. We have an online platform for all lectures, assessments, and general admin as well as a mentoring program throughout the year. Mentoring and catching up sessions with the graduates is so important, especially to understand their personal challenges, achievements and concerns for their future. We encourage a one-on-one relationship with the farm manager and graduate - the farm managers play a very important role in mentoring on a day-to-day basis.
We cover macadamia and avocado Growing and Harvesting, Pruning, Irrigation, Pest management, Economics, Human Resource Management, Soil management and Plant Nutrition, Environmental legislation, Global Gap and Pollination. Skilled development courses such as tractor, quad and motorbike driving, health and safety of equipment and the Safety of chemical spraying are also included in the calendar. We have also introduced a management and leadership course at the beginning of the year to equip the graduates when given supervisory roles.
We opened our doors in 2018 and to date have successfully placed all 22 graduates. 2021 has an intake of 14 graduates who are halfway through their practical experience. RecruitAgri targets graduates aged 25 years and younger, countrywide with a valid driver’s license and a passion for farming. Graduates are paid a monthly stipend, supplied with uniform for the year and accommodation provided. Applications open beginning of August through our CV portal www.recruitagri.com and close on the 15th of September 2021.
We have partnered with like-minded entities in the industry and have committed Grower, Industry and Collaborating Partners on board. Sustainable livelihoods in South Africa through youth employment and skill development courses as well as environmental economic sustainability, is RecruitAgri’s objective alongside our valued Partners. We value their involvement in this project as we collectively equip black Junior Farm Managers to join the Agricultural industry. We are in the process of nationally rolling out, so we can reach more graduates and involve agricultural expertise in different provinces. Our funding is crucial to this rollout and with RecruitAgri’s awareness of youth unemployment and how important it is for South Africa; we are hoping to connect with more entities in the agricultural sector and country.
