KAL Academy proudly celebrated the graduation of 28 new-generation farmers in March 2024. The Academy is the flagship socio-economic development programme of the JSE-listed KAL Group, committed to empowering new-generation farmers to transform South African agriculture through education. It provides tailored, AgriSETA-accredited training courses to new-generation farmers and farmworkers.
The ceremony held in the picturesque town of Porterville was a testament to the aspiring producers’ personal growth and unwavering dedication. The graduates were awarded NQF2 and NQF3 qualifications in Mixed Farming Systems and Animal Production, marking a significant milestone in their development as farmers.
The Academy offers high-quality, free academic training to equip new-generation farmers with theoretical, practical, and managerial knowledge for their development into successful players in the commercial farming sector.
During the graduation ceremony, Warren Bam, an accomplished Organic Table Grape Farmer, who won several honours as one of SA’s top new-generation farmers, shared practical and relatable advice, drawing from his own experience as a producer.
Fully aware of the challenges that new-generation farmers face, Warren motivated the graduates to continue fuelling their passion. “Don’t throw in the towel, don’t give up, and don’t be limited by time constraints. Let your passion for what you do be the driving force behind your goals,” he advised.
KAL Academy is a beacon of hope for new-generation farmers. With 499 alumni, it has produced many graduates who have assumed prominent roles in the agriculture sector, showcasing the programme’s effectiveness and the promising career trajectory that agriculture offers. Shining examples are the raisin producer Martin van Rooi, Raisin SA’s Emerging Farmer of the Year in 2019, and Preline Swart, the first black female vice-chairperson of Grain SA.
The top achiever in this year’s NQF3 Animal Production class is Elize-Gerda Beukes, a 24-year-old farmer from Keimoes. She farms with grapes, from which she produces raisins, and with goats, sheep, and pigs.
“I've learned that success in animal production isn’t just about raising livestock; it’s about nurturing life, understanding nature’s rhythms, and fostering good practices on our farm. The Animal Production course has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to contribute positively to our farming practices,” says Gerda.
In the NQF2 Mixed Farming Systems programme, Lelethu Vundla distinguished herself as the top achiever. She completed her matric and, not being sure of her career direction, decided to pursue agriculture with KAL Academy. The course has sparked a newfound passion, and she now wants to continue her studies in agriculture.
"With all the knowledge I’ve gained from KAL Academy, I now see farming as more than just a job and it goes far beyond planting and harvesting. It’s a way of learning important values like simplicity, perseverance and humility. Agriculture isn’t just about making money; it’s about gaining real wealth in terms of good values and true happiness,” says Lelethu.
Celebrating the graduates’ achievements, KAL Group CEO, Sean Walsh, emphasised the significance of their decision to pursue a path as new-generation farmers. “Congratulations to the class of 2023. Your dedication and commitment to shaping the future of agriculture should be commended.”
He added that by choosing KAL Academy, graduates can expect a journey of ongoing support to enhance their farming practice. “As part of the KAL Group network, graduates can look forward to assistance such as product support, mentorship, networking and further development opportunities. Choosing us means becoming part of a community dedicated to fostering growth and sustainability.”
Situated in the farming community of Porterville, KAL Academy adopts a blended learning approach in its farmer development programme, incorporating in-person and online learning, video-based sessions, and mandatory practical field excursions. KAL Academy covers all training costs, including tuition fees, transport, and accommodation, making education accessible to new-generation farmers in the Western and Northern Cape who face financial constraints.
To explore the KAL Academy’s opportunities, visit www.kalgroup.co.za/academy.
