AFGRI Farmer Development (AFD) is inviting applications for 14 Learnership opportunities for the 2026/2027 programme, offering unemployed South African citizens an opportunity to gain practical agricultural training and workplace experience.
The 12-month learnership programme will take place at Vastfontein Training Farm in Pretoria North, Gauteng, where successful candidates will receive both on-the-job and off-the-job training in farming with crops and animals.
Applicants must have completed Grade 12 (Matric) or possess an equivalent qualification, be South African citizens and currently be unemployed.
Although the programme is not exclusively reserved for previously disadvantaged individuals, AFGRI Farmer Development encourages historically disadvantaged candidates to apply. The advertisement also states that preference will be given to women and people with disabilities.
This opportunity is suitable for candidates interested in agriculture, crop production, livestock farming, agricultural operations and practical farm management.
AFGRI Farmer Development Learnerships 2026/2027: Programme Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | AFGRI Farmer Development (AFD) |
| Programme | Farming With Crops and Animals Learnership |
| Reference Number | AO-2494 |
| Number of Opportunities | 14 |
| Industry | Agriculture / Farming |
| Programme Type | Learnership |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Training Location | Vastfontein Training Farm |
| Area | Pretoria North |
| Province | Gauteng |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 or equivalent |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Employment Status | Unemployed |
| Training Method | On-the-job and off-the-job |
| Preference | Women and people with disabilities |
| Stipend | Not specified |
| Advertisement Date | 20 October 2026 |
| Closing Date | Not specified |
About AFGRI Farmer Development
AFGRI Farmer Development is involved in agricultural development and training initiatives.
The advertised learnership aims to equip participants with practical experience and knowledge relevant to farming with crops and animals.
Through the programme, learners will be exposed to activities associated with farm operations while participating in structured training.
The training will take place at AFGRI Farmer Development’s Vastfontein Training Farm in Pretoria North.
Participants will work with cross-functional teams and contribute to farm-related activities and projects.
The programme provides an opportunity for individuals who want to develop practical agricultural skills while gaining workplace exposure.
About the Farming With Crops and Animals Learnership
The AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership Programme runs for 12 months.
It combines two forms of learning:
1. On-the-Job Training
Successful candidates will gain practical experience by participating in activities and responsibilities aligned with the programme at the training farm.
This component allows learners to experience how farming activities are carried out in a working agricultural environment.
2. Off-the-Job Training
Learners will also participate in training activities outside their routine practical farm duties.
These activities form part of the structured learning programme.
The supplied advertisement does not specify the exact training modules, qualification level or assessment structure.
Where Will the AFGRI Learnership Take Place?
Successful applicants will be placed at:
Vastfontein Training Farm, Pretoria North, Gauteng
The learners will remain at the training farm for the duration of the programme, according to the advertised placement arrangements.
Applicants should consider the location before applying.
The supplied information does not specify whether accommodation or transport assistance will be provided.
Minimum Requirements for AFGRI Learnerships 2026/2027
Interested candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have completed Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
- Be currently unemployed.
The advertisement also identifies preference categories for certain applicants.
No compulsory previous farming experience is specified in the supplied requirements.
The advertisement does not provide an age limit or require a driver’s licence.
Can You Apply With Matric Only?
Yes. Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification is the minimum educational requirement.
Applicants do not need a university degree or diploma to meet the stated academic requirement.
Candidates with Matric who are unemployed and are South African citizens may be eligible to apply.
However, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Is Previous Farming Experience Required?
The supplied advertisement does not list previous agricultural employment experience as compulsory.
This makes the programme relevant to unemployed candidates who want to gain practical experience in farming.
Applicants who have participated in school agricultural activities, community gardening, crop production or livestock-related projects may highlight that experience in their CVs.
However, candidates should not claim experience or qualifications they do not possess.
Preference for Women and People With Disabilities
The advertisement states that preference will be given to:
- Women.
- People with disabilities.
AFGRI Farmer Development also encourages applications from historically disadvantaged individuals.
The programme is not exclusively restricted to individuals from previously disadvantaged communities.
All candidates must still meet the advertised minimum requirements and applicable selection criteria.
What Will Learners Do During the Programme?
The successful candidates will participate in practical farm activities and responsibilities aligned with the training programme.
The advertisement identifies the following broad responsibilities:
1. Participate in Farm Training
Learners will undergo on-the-job and off-the-job training in farming with crops and animals.
2. Gain Practical Work Experience
Participants will perform various duties and responsibilities on the farm to develop all-round workplace experience.
3. Work With Cross-Functional Teams
Learners will work alongside team members from different functional areas.
This provides exposure to collaboration within an agricultural working environment.
4. Contribute to Project Work
Participants will support project activities undertaken by their teams.
5. Complete the Learnership Programme
Successful applicants will enter into a contract with AFGRI Farmer Development and participate in the programme for 12 months.
The exact daily duties will depend on the training arrangements.
Understanding Farming With Crops and Animals
Farming with crops and animals involves agricultural activities related to plant production and livestock management.
The programme’s title indicates that training will focus on these two broad agricultural areas.
Crop Farming
Crop farming generally involves growing and managing agricultural plants.
Depending on the type of farming operation, activities may include planting, crop maintenance, irrigation, monitoring plant growth and harvesting.
Animal Farming
Animal farming generally involves the care and management of livestock.
Depending on the agricultural operation, activities may include feeding, observing animal health, maintaining facilities and supporting routine livestock management.
These are general examples of agricultural work and are not a confirmed list of duties or training modules for the AFGRI learnership.
Applicants should consult the official programme information for specific learning outcomes.
Skills Learners May Develop
The programme is intended to provide practical agricultural experience and workplace training.
Relevant skills may include:
| Skill Area | Potential Development |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Knowledge | Understanding farming activities |
| Practical Farm Experience | Participating in farm operations |
| Teamwork | Working with cross-functional teams |
| Communication | Interacting with colleagues |
| Workplace Readiness | Following workplace procedures |
| Project Participation | Supporting team activities |
| Responsibility | Completing assigned duties |
| Time Management | Organising work activities |
| Adaptability | Learning in a practical environment |
| Problem-Solving | Responding to routine workplace challenges |
The precise skills developed will depend on the actual training programme.
AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership Stipend and Benefits
The supplied advertisement does not specify a monthly stipend or additional financial benefits.
| Financial Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | Not specified |
| Programme Duration | 12 Months |
| On-the-Job Training | Included |
| Off-the-Job Training | Included |
| Accommodation | Not specified |
| Transport Allowance | Not specified |
| Meals | Not specified |
| Medical Aid | Not specified |
| Pension Fund | Not specified |
| Paid Leave | Not specified |
| Permanent Employment | Not guaranteed |
Applicants should confirm stipend arrangements and any applicable benefits during the official recruitment process.
Why Consider the AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership?
1. Fourteen Opportunities Available
The programme advertises 14 learnership positions.
2. Matric Is Accepted
Candidates with Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification may apply.
3. Practical Agricultural Training
Participants will gain experience in farming with crops and animals.
4. Twelve Months of Workplace Exposure
The programme provides a full year of structured learning and practical experience.
5. On-the-Job and Off-the-Job Learning
Learners will participate in both practical workplace activities and other structured training.
6. Team-Based Experience
Successful candidates will work with cross-functional teams and contribute to project activities.
7. Agricultural Career Development
The programme may help participants prepare for future opportunities in agriculture and farming-related industries.
Career Opportunities After Agricultural Learnership Training
Relevant farming experience may support future applications for entry-level agricultural positions.
Potential career pathways include:
- Farm Assistant.
- Agricultural General Worker.
- Crop Production Assistant.
- Livestock Assistant.
- Farm Operations Assistant.
- Agricultural Production Worker.
- Agricultural Project Assistant.
- Farming Support Worker.
These are possible career pathways rather than guaranteed jobs after completing the programme.
Further training or qualifications may be required for certain agricultural occupations.
How to Prepare Your CV for AFGRI Learnerships
Applicants should prepare a professional CV that highlights their education, skills and interest in agriculture.
A suitable CV may include:
- Full name and contact details.
- Residential area.
- Grade 12 qualification.
- Additional agricultural training, if applicable.
- Previous work experience, if any.
- Relevant volunteering activities.
- Teamwork skills.
- Communication abilities.
- Practical skills.
- References, where appropriate.
Candidates without formal employment experience can include genuine participation in agricultural projects or other relevant activities.
Documents to Prepare
Applicants may wish to prepare:
- Updated CV.
- Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification.
- South African identification document, if requested.
- Relevant additional qualifications, if applicable.
- Other documents requested by AFGRI Farmer Development.
The supplied advertisement does not specify a complete list of compulsory application documents.
Applicants should follow the official application instructions.
How to Prepare for an AFGRI Learnership Interview
Candidates may benefit from preparing for questions about their motivation, interest in agriculture and ability to work in a team.
Why Do You Want to Join the AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership?
A suitable response should explain the applicant’s interest in farming and willingness to learn practical agricultural skills.
Are You Comfortable Working in a Farming Environment?
Candidates should explain their understanding that agricultural work may involve practical outdoor activities and following workplace instructions.
Can You Work With Other People?
Applicants should describe their ability to cooperate with team members.
What Do You Know About Crop and Animal Farming?
Candidates can discuss their genuine knowledge of basic agricultural activities.
Are You Available for the Full 12-Month Programme?
Applicants should be prepared to confirm their availability for the advertised training period.
These are suggested preparation questions and not confirmed questions from AFGRI Farmer Development.
How to Apply for AFGRI Farmer Development Learnerships 2026/2027
Interested candidates should locate the official AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership advertisement and follow the prescribed application procedure.
Use the following information when searching for the vacancy:
Company: AFGRI Farmer Development
Programme: Learnership (x14) – Vastfontein Farm
Reference Number: AO-2494
Programme Year: 2026/2027
Duration: 12 Months
Training Location: Vastfontein Training Farm, Pretoria North
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 or equivalent
The supplied advertisement does not specify a direct application link or closing date.
Applicants can consult the official AFGRI website for company information and available recruitment channels.
Before submitting an application:
- Confirm that you are a South African citizen.
- Ensure that you have Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
- Confirm that you are currently unemployed.
- Prepare an updated CV.
- Review the programme location.
- Search for Reference Number AO-2494.
- Follow the official application instructions.
- Submit your application before the confirmed deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AFGRI offering learnerships for 2026/2027?
The supplied advertisement invites applications for the AFGRI Farmer Development 2026/2027 Learnership Programme.
How many positions are available?
There are 14 advertised learnership opportunities.
What qualification is required?
Applicants must have Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
Can I apply without previous work experience?
The supplied advertisement does not specify previous employment experience as compulsory.
Must applicants be unemployed?
Yes. Applicants must be unemployed.
How long is the learnership?
The programme lasts 12 months.
Where will training take place?
Vastfontein Training Farm in Pretoria North, Gauteng.
What will learners study?
The programme focuses on farming with crops and animals.
Will learners gain practical experience?
Yes. The programme includes on-the-job training and practical farm responsibilities.
Is there an age limit?
No age limit is specified in the supplied advertisement.
Is a driver’s licence required?
A driver’s licence is not listed among the supplied minimum requirements.
Who will receive preference?
The advertisement states that preference will be given to women and people with disabilities.
Can men apply?
Yes. The programme is not advertised as exclusively restricted to women.
Is the programme only for historically disadvantaged individuals?
No. AFGRI encourages historically disadvantaged individuals to apply, but the programme is not exclusively limited to them.
What is the monthly stipend?
The supplied advertisement does not specify the stipend.
Is permanent employment guaranteed?
No guarantee of permanent employment is stated.
What is the reference number?
AO-2494.
What is the closing date?
The closing date is not specified in the supplied advertisement.
AFGRI Farmer Development Learnerships 2026/2027: Final Application Advice
The AFGRI Farmer Development Learnership Programme 2026/2027 offers 14 training opportunities for unemployed South African citizens interested in agricultural careers.
The 12-month programme will take place at Vastfontein Training Farm in Pretoria North.
Learners will receive on-the-job and off-the-job training in farming with crops and animals, gain practical workplace experience and participate in team-based activities.
Applicants must have Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification, be South African citizens and currently be unemployed.
The advertisement encourages historically disadvantaged individuals to apply and states that preference will be given to women and people with disabilities.
Company: AFGRI Farmer Development
Programme: Farming With Crops and Animals Learnership
Number of Positions: 14
Reference Number: AO-2494
Programme Year: 2026/2027
Duration: 12 Months
Location: Vastfontein Training Farm, Pretoria North
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 or equivalent
Employment Status: Unemployed
Stipend: Not specified
Closing Date: Not specified
Interested candidates should confirm the official application method and closing date before submitting their applications.