AgriSETA Internship Programme 2025
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa (Head Office and regional placements)
Stipend: Approximately R5,000–R8,000/month (based on SETA internship standards, to be confirmed)
Programme Type: Internship (12 months)
Start Date: To be confirmed upon selection
Accreditation: AgriSETA (aligned with NQF standards)
The AgriSETA Internship Programme 2025 offers a transformative opportunity for South African graduates to gain practical skills and industry exposure in the agriculture sector. Facilitated by the Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA), this 12-month programme bridges the gap between education and employment, preparing young professionals for careers in farming, food technology, and environmental sustainability. With applications closing on 23 May 2025, this guide provides everything you need to apply and succeed.
About AgriSETA
AgriSETA, established under the Skills Development Act of 1998, promotes skills development in South Africa’s agriculture sector, supporting over 110,000 enterprises and 1.9 million workers. Through learnerships, internships, and bursaries, AgriSETA addresses skills shortages in areas like crop production, animal husbandry, and agro-processing. Their mission, as stated on their website, is to “create opportunities for social, economic, and employment growth for agri-enterprises through accessible education.”
Programme Overview
The AgriSETA Internship Programme 2025 targets recent graduates, offering hands-on experience in agricultural operations, research, or administrative support at AgriSETA’s Pretoria head office or partnered agri-enterprises nationwide. Interns work under expert mentors, gaining skills aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and contributing to food security and rural development.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with farm management tasks, such as crop monitoring, soil analysis, or livestock care.
- Support food safety and quality assurance processes, including compliance with industry standards.
- Conduct data entry and reporting for agricultural projects or research.
- Participate in training sessions on modern farming techniques, like precision agriculture or hydroponics.
- Engage with stakeholders, including farmers, cooperatives, and AgriSETA facilitators.
- Contribute to environmental sustainability initiatives, such as water conservation or pest management.
What You’ll Gain
- Competitive Stipend: Earn approximately R5,000–R8,000/month (aligned with SETA internships).
- Practical Experience: Gain 12 months of industry exposure, with 65% of AgriSETA interns securing jobs post-programme (DHET 2024).
- NQF-Aligned Skills: Develop technical and soft skills, such as crop management, teamwork, and communication.
- Mentorship: Receive guidance from industry experts, as past interns note: “AgriSETA’s mentors gave me confidence to excel.”
- Networking: Build connections with agricultural leaders, opening doors to future opportunities.
- Career Pathway: Enhance employability for roles like farm manager, agronomist, or food technologist.
Eligibility Criteria
- Education:
- Citizenship: South African citizen or permanent resident with legal work authorization.
- Age: Preferably 18–35, aligning with youth-focused skills programmes.
- Experience: No prior work experience required, though volunteer work or farm projects are advantageous.
- Skills & Competencies:
- Basic computer literacy (MS Office: Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
- Problem-solving, teamwork, and time management abilities.
- Personal Attributes:
- Passion for agriculture and food security.
- Proactive, reliable, and eager to learn.
- Commitment to rural development and sustainability.
- Other Requirements:
- Clear criminal record (background checks may be conducted).
- Alignment with AgriSETA’s Employment Equity goals (preference for designated groups).
How to Apply
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Updated CV (2 pages max, excluding certificates) highlighting education, skills, and any agriculture-related experience.
- Cover letter (1 page) explaining your motivation and suitability for the internship.
- Certified copy of ID (certified within the last 3 months).
- Certified copies of qualifications (Diploma/Degree or Grade 12 certificate).
- Academic transcripts or relevant certificates (if requested).
- Submit Your Application:
- Email your documents to Interns2025@agriseta.co.za with the subject line: “AgriSETA Internship 2025 Application – [Your Full Name].”
- Ensure files are in PDF format (total size not exceeding 5 MB).
- Alternatively, check AgriSETA’s website (www.agriseta.co.za) for online application portals, as some roles may use digital submissions.
- Application Notes:
- Applications must be submitted by employers or training providers on behalf of learners, per AgriSETA’s process. Contact your university career office or a local agri-enterprise for assistance.
- Do not include original documents or unsolicited certificates.
- Double-check your email for accuracy to avoid delivery issues.
- Deadline: Submit by 3 June 2025 at 16:30 SAST. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Follow Up: Expect feedback within 14–28 days post-deadline (by 20 June 2025). If shortlisted, prepare for interviews or assessments.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight agriculture-related coursework, projects, or volunteer work (e.g., community gardening).
- Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Explain your passion for agriculture and how the internship aligns with your career goals. Use phrases like “I am committed to advancing sustainable farming practices.”
- Showcase Skills: Emphasize technical skills (e.g., soil testing) and soft skills (e.g., teamwork from group projects).
- Apply Early: Submit at least a week before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Verify Submission: Follow up via email (Interns2025@agriseta.co.za) or call AgriSETA at +27 12 301 5600 to confirm receipt.
- Network: Connect with AgriSETA on social media (e.g., Instagram @agrisetaofficial) for updates.
Why Choose AgriSETA’s Internship?
- Industry Impact: Contribute to a sector employing 870,000 South Africans and generating 3% of GDP (Stats SA 2025).
- SETA Accreditation: Gain skills recognized by the NQF, ensuring credibility with employers.
- Diverse Opportunities: Work in sub-sectors like agro-processing, horticulture, or livestock, as outlined in AgriSETA’s Sector Skills Plan.
- Equity Focus: Benefit from a programme prioritizing youth and designated groups, with past interns noting: “AgriSETA opened doors I never thought possible.”
- Future-Ready Skills: Learn cutting-edge techniques, like precision farming, to meet global food demands.
What to Expect During the Internship
- Tasks: Engage in farm operations (e.g., crop monitoring), research (e.g., pest control studies), or administrative support (e.g., project reporting).
- Training: Attend workshops on topics like sustainable agriculture or food safety, often at AgriSETA’s Pretoria office or partner farms.
- Mentorship: Work closely with agronomists, farm managers, or food technologists for personalized guidance.
- Duration: Commit to 12 months, with 80% practical work and 20% theoretical learning, typical of SETA internships.
- Evaluations: Complete assessments to track progress, ensuring NQF-aligned outcomes.
Additional Notes
- Funding Window: AgriSETA’s Discretionary Grants, which may support internships, have an extended application period until 25 September 2025 for the 2025/26 financial year. Employers can apply for funding to cover stipends.
- No Direct Applications: Individuals cannot apply directly; coordinate with an employer or training provider (e.g., universities or agricultural cooperatives).
- Verification: Confirm AgriSETA’s accreditation via www.saqa.org.za or www.agriseta.co.za.
Take the Next Step
Ready to grow your career in agriculture? Prepare your CV and cover letter and submit your application for the AgriSETA Internship Programme 2025 by 3 june 2025 to Interns2025@agriseta.co.za. Partner with your university or a local agri-enterprise to apply and join a programme shaping South Africa’s food future!
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