15 AgriSETA Learnerships to Jumpstart Your Career in Agriculture best in 2025

AgriSETA Learnerships remains one of South Africa’s most vital sectors, offering numerous career opportunities in areas such as farming, agro-processing, agribusiness, and sustainable resource management. For young South Africans looking to break into this sector, AgriSETA (Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority) provides a wide range of learnerships. These programs combine formal learning with hands-on work experience, equipping learners with skills that employers value.

AgriSETA learnerships are designed to support youth development, reduce unemployment, and enhance the agricultural sector’s productivity. Whether you are a matriculant, NCV graduate, or NQF Level 2 or higher holder, there are programs that can help you build a meaningful career. Below, we explore 15 AgriSETA learnerships available in 2025.

1. AgriSETA Internship Programme

This programme provides graduates with practical experience in agricultural organizations. Interns work on real projects, learn industry best practices, and gain exposure to roles in farm management, agro-processing, and agricultural research. The programme typically lasts 12 months, with a stipend to support learners during their placement.

2. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) AgriSETA Learnerships

The WIL programme targets learners who have completed academic studies but require workplace exposure. Participants combine their theoretical knowledge with on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced professionals. This learnership is ideal for those seeking employment in agricultural operations, agribusiness, and supply chain management.

3. Agricultural Business Management AgriSETA Learnerships

Focused on developing business skills for agriculture, this learnership trains learners in farm financial management, business planning, and marketing strategies. Graduates are equipped to manage small-scale farms or contribute to larger agribusiness enterprises.

4. Crop Production AgriSETA Learnerships

This program trains learners in modern crop farming techniques, soil management, irrigation practices, and pest control. The learnership prepares participants to work in commercial farming operations or start their own crop production ventures.

5. Livestock Production Learnership

Learners gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, breeding, feeding, and health management. This program is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in cattle, poultry, sheep, or goat farming.

6. Horticulture Learnership

This AgriSETA Learnerships focuses on cultivating fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Learners gain skills in planting, harvesting, irrigation, and post-harvest management, making them suitable for employment in commercial horticultural farms or urban agriculture initiatives.

7. Agro-Processing AgriSETA Learnerships

Agro-processing is a growing sector in South Africa, and this learnership trains learners in food processing, quality control, packaging, and supply chain management. Graduates can work in food manufacturing plants or establish small-scale processing businesses.

8. Agricultural Research and Development Learnership

Learners interested in scientific approaches to agriculture can benefit from this program. It covers experimental farming, data collection, and analysis, as well as developing solutions for sustainable agricultural practices.

9. Sustainable AgriSETA Learnerships

Sustainability is critical for the future of farming. This learnership equips learners with knowledge on organic farming, water conservation, soil health, and environmentally friendly farming practices.

10. Agricultural Extension Services Learnership

Extension officers help communities adopt modern farming techniques. This learnership trains learners to advise farmers, deliver training sessions, and support agricultural projects at a community level.

11. Aquaculture AgriSETA Learnerships

Aquaculture is a niche but expanding field in South Africa. This program teaches learners to farm fish and other aquatic species, manage water systems, and monitor nutrition and health of aquatic livestock.

12. Agricultural Mechanization Learnership

This learnership focuses on the use of machinery and technology in farming. Learners acquire skills in operating tractors, irrigation systems, harvesting equipment, and basic maintenance of agricultural machinery.

13. Agribusiness Management Learnership

Learners in this program develop entrepreneurial and managerial skills specific to the agriculture sector. Topics include financial planning, human resource management, marketing, and business development.

14. Forestry and Timber Production Learnership

This learnership trains learners in forest management, timber harvesting, and sustainable forestry practices. Graduates can work in timber production companies or conservation projects.

15. Agricultural Supply Chain Management Learnership

This program focuses on logistics, inventory control, and distribution of agricultural products. Learners develop skills to ensure that produce moves efficiently from farms to markets, reducing wastage and increasing profitability.

Benefits of AgriSETA Learnerships

1. Hands-On Experience: Each learnership combines practical exposure with theory, giving learners real workplace skills.
2. Monthly Stipend: Most programmes provide a stipend, allowing learners to focus on learning without financial stress.
3. Accredited Qualifications: Learnerships lead to SAQA-registered qualifications, recognized nationally.
4. Career Opportunities: Many learners transition into permanent employment or entrepreneurship after completing their learnership.
5. Mentorship and Guidance: Experienced professionals guide learners throughout the program, ensuring skill development.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Aged between 18 and 35 years (varies by program).
• Educational requirements range from NQF Level 2 (Grade 10) to N6, depending on the learnership.
• Unemployed or seeking work experience.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official AgriSETA website’s Learnerships section.
2. Review each learnership’s requirements carefully.
3. Prepare a CV and certified copies of your ID and qualifications.
4. Submit your application before the specified deadline.
5. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or assessments.

Conclusion

AgriSETA learnerships provide a golden opportunity for young South Africans to gain industry-relevant skills, practical experience, and a recognized qualification. With 15 diverse programs spanning crop production, livestock management, agribusiness, agro-processing, and sustainable farming practices, there is a pathway for almost anyone interested in the agriculture sector.

By taking part in these learnerships, learners can position themselves for long-term careers, contribute to food security, and play a key role in South Africa’s agricultural growth. For those eager to enter the agricultural workforce, applying for an AgriSETA learnership could be the first step toward a rewarding career.