DELMAS – Buhle Farmers’ Academy held a graduation ceremony on November 14, 2024, honoring over 60 students who completed their agricultural training programs.
Twenty-one (21) students graduated in poultry farming, 18 in vegetable production and 22 in livestock and animal health.
The program offered them specialized knowledge and hands-on experience preparing them to enter South Africa’s agricultural industry.
Ntsako Baloyi, campus manager, said the Academy is revolutionizing agriculture through innovative training. “Our goal is to combat food insecurity and unemployment by empowering 500 farmers annually,” he said. “We focus on poultry farming, vegetable production, livestock and animal health production, and green crop production. Our graduates become entrepreneurs, employing at least five people each, contributing to economic growth.”
He continued, “We’re proud to have 67% youth and aim for more female farmers. Our training includes cutting-edge technologies like high-speed discs, electronic sprayers, and hydroponics, enabling production regardless of environmental limitations.”
Baloyi further explained that they are fighting food insecurity and unemployment through innovative agriculture training. “Our graduates become entrepreneurs, employing others and contributing to economic growth. We’re empowering youth and female farmers with cutting edge technologies like hydroponics,” he said.
“They’re now equipped to contribute to food security, sustainable farming, and economic growth in their communities. The academy’s training addresses critical skills gaps, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.”
Robert Thema, poultry and livestock graduate, expressed his heartfelt gratitude in an interview with the paper.
“The academy delivers on its promise, equipping graduates with the expertise to establish thriving farming businesses, not just secure jobs,” he said.
