If you’ve got your matric and you’re not sure what’s next — and if you’ve always had a thing for machines, engines, or fixing stuff — AFGRI might just have the perfect next step for you.
They’ve opened up their 2026 Apprenticeship Programme aimed at helping young South Africans learn real technical skills, get hands-on experience, and kickstart a long-term career in agriculture and mechanics.
What’s the deal with this apprenticeship?
AFGRI isn’t just any name in agriculture — they’ve been around for over 100 years. Their apprenticeship programme focuses on growing skilled artisans in areas like Diesel Mechanics, Millwrights, and Electrical work.
This isn’t just theory or classroom stuff either. You’ll actually learn on the job, in proper workshops, with experienced mentors showing you the ropes.
And here’s the good part: they cover everything. That includes:
- Tuition fees
- Study materials and toolkits
- Protective gear and uniforms
- Practical training across their workshop network
It’s a full-time, structured programme that usually runs for three years, ending with a trade test. Once you pass, you’ll be a fully qualified artisan — a skillset you can take anywhere.
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What you’ll be doing during the apprenticeship:
- Learning how to repair and maintain tractors and earthmoving equipment
- Helping with stock and parts control
- Assisting customers and getting familiar with service requests
- Pitching in with general work in the workshop while picking up practical skills
- Getting trained to become a technician who knows their way around agri-machinery
Who should apply?
This programme is specifically for unemployed matriculants who are serious about getting into a technical career. To be eligible, you need to:
- Be South African, aged between 18 and 25
- Have finished Grade 12 with Maths and Physical Science
- Show genuine interest in working with machines and tools
- Be willing to commit full-time for a few years — this is not a side hustle
Extra points if:
- You’ve got a driver’s license
- You took technical subjects in school
- You’ve done an N2 or N3 engineering intro course
Why choose AFGRI?
Besides being one of SA’s most trusted names in agriculture, AFGRI also takes care of their own. Apprentices get exposed to top-end machinery, real farming operations, and the kind of training that opens doors.
Many of their past apprentices end up working full-time with them after qualifying. Some even move into leadership or training positions later on. So this isn’t just a learnership — it’s a solid shot at a future career
What do you need to apply?
Get your paperwork in order first:
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Your CV with contactable references
- Proof of where you live
APPLY FOR THE AFGRI APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME FOR MATRICULANTS FOR 2026 HERE
Closing Date: 08 August 2025
Spots are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re gone — so don’t wait around if this feels like your thing.
Final thoughts
This programme is a great chance for young people who want to build something real with their hands and brains. If you’re sitting with a matric and not much else, and you know you’ve got what it takes to learn, work, and grow — AFGRI could be your way in.