South Africa’s agricultural sector is gearing up for an exciting opportunity that promises to empower unemployed graduates across the Northern Cape. The 2025/26 Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Entrepreneurial Development Programme has officially opened applications for 80 paid internship positions designed to provide practical, hands-on experience and entrepreneurial skills development for graduates interested in agriculture and related fields. Agricultural Graduate Program 2026
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This programme is a game-changer for young and mature South African graduates aged between 18 and 45 who have diplomas or degrees in agriculture, environmental affairs, nature conservation, or related disciplines. If you have been waiting for the right chance to launch your career in agriculture, this may be it!
What Is the Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Entrepreneurial Development Programme?
The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development, and Land Reform (DAERL) has developed this initiative to address the skills gap in the agricultural value chain. The programme offers structured, paid internships that last for 24 months — nearly two full years of immersive training and practical exposure.
Participants will be placed across the Northern Cape’s five district municipalities and gain experience in diverse agricultural fields including:
- Livestock management
- Crop production and cultivation
- Mixed farming systems
- Hydroponics and innovative farming techniques
- Agro-processing industries
- Vineyard raisin production
- Nature conservation and game management
What sets this programme apart is its comprehensive approach: not only do interns receive real-world farming experience, but they also get business coaching, mentorship from agricultural experts, and exposure to agribusiness development and enterprise creation.
Why Is This Programme Important?
Agriculture is a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy and food security. Yet many graduates face challenges securing employment and practical experience. This programme helps bridge that gap by equipping participants with both the technical skills and entrepreneurial know-how to succeed in the agricultural sector or start their own agribusiness ventures.
The Northern Cape government is actively promoting youth empowerment, gender equality, and inclusivity by prioritizing first-time government internship applicants, women, and persons with disabilities. This ensures equal access and support for all qualified candidates.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Entrepreneurial Development Programme 2025/26 |
| Department | Northern Cape DAERL |
| Positions Available | 80 internship placements |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Monthly Stipend | R7,860.50 |
| Who Should Apply? | South African graduates aged 18-45 with diplomas or degrees related to agriculture or environment, unemployed |
| Application Deadline | 19 December 2025 |
| Application Method | Submit completed Z83 form, CV via post, email, or hand-delivery |
| Contact Person | Mr Malebogo Mocwiri – 082 559 0827 |
Who Should Apply?
This programme is open to South African graduates who meet the following criteria:
- Age: Between 18 and 45 years old
- Qualification: Diploma or degree in agriculture, environmental affairs, nature conservation, or related fields
- Employment Status: Currently unemployed
- Experience: Preference given to first-time government internship applicants
- Inclusivity: Women and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply
If you are passionate about agriculture, keen to develop entrepreneurial skills, and want to gain real-world experience, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
Financial Support: A monthly stipend of R7,860.50 ensures you can focus on learning and growing without financial stress.
Duration: The 24-month training period is designed to provide ample time for mastery of technical skills, professional growth, and business acumen.
Hands-On Training: Gain practical knowledge in farm management, crop and livestock production, agro-processing, and conservation practices.
Entrepreneurship Development: Receive mentorship, coaching, and guidance on agribusiness startup and growth strategies, including access to funding options.
Networking Opportunities: Work alongside experienced professionals and build relationships within the agricultural sector to boost your career prospects.
What Will You Learn?
Participants receive comprehensive training that covers:
- Farm Operations: From planting cycles to livestock care and farm maintenance
- Agribusiness Processes: Understanding supply chains, marketing, and sales in agriculture
- Conservation Techniques: Promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices
- Project Management: Planning, organizing, and executing agricultural projects effectively
- Entrepreneurship Skills: Business planning, financial management, and accessing grants or loans for farming ventures
How To Apply
To apply, prepare the following documents:
- Fully completed and signed Z83 Form (download the latest version from official government sources)
- Comprehensive CV, including your contact information, education background, work or volunteer experience, and key skills
- Motivation Letter (recommended) outlining why you are interested in the internship and how you hope to benefit
Submit your application by post, email, or hand-delivery before the closing date of 19 December 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Make sure to quote the correct reference number as specified in the official call to ensure your application is correctly processed.
Contact Information for Enquiries
- General Enquiries: Mr Malebogo Mocwiri – 082 559 0827
- Media Inquiries: Mr Stephen Galane – 065 707 9152 | Email: sgalane@daerl.co.za / sgalane30@gmail.com
If you have questions about the programme or the application process, reach out directly to these contacts for assistance.
Additional Internship Opportunities for 2026
Besides this programme, other agricultural and rural development internships may be available across South Africa. It’s wise to keep an eye on government websites, provincial departments, and agricultural organisations for upcoming opportunities that match your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Internship Programme?
You must be a South African citizen between 18 and 45 years old, unemployed, and hold a diploma or degree in agriculture, environmental affairs, nature conservation, or related fields. Priority is given to first-time government internship applicants, women, and persons with disabilities.
2. What is the duration of the internship?
The internship lasts for 24 months (2 years), providing extensive practical experience and mentorship.
3. Is this a paid internship?
Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend of R7,860.50 throughout the duration of the programme.
4. How do I apply?
Prepare a completed and signed Z83 form along with a detailed CV. Applications can be submitted by post, email, or hand-delivery before the closing date, which is 19 December 2025.
5. Can I apply if I have previously done a government internship?
This programme prioritizes first-time entrants to government internships, but it is best to confirm eligibility directly with DAERL.
6. What kind of experience will I gain?
You will receive hands-on training in farm operations, agribusiness management, crop and livestock production, agro-processing, conservation, and enterprise development.
7. Are there specific locations for these internships?
Yes, the internships are spread across the Northern Cape’s five district municipalities, exposing you to a variety of agricultural environments.
8. Will there be mentorship and coaching?
Absolutely. The programme includes mentorship from agricultural professionals, technical coaching, and business development support.
9. What happens after the internship?
Graduates will be equipped with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, improving their chances of securing permanent employment or starting their own agribusiness.
10. Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Mr Malebogo Mocwiri at 082 559 0827 for general enquiries or Mr Stephen Galane at 065 707 9152 for media-related questions.
Final Thoughts
The Northern Cape’s Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Entrepreneurial Development Programme offers a rare and valuable chance for graduates to build a successful career in agriculture. If you meet the requirements, don’t hesitate to apply before the deadline. This opportunity combines financial support, expert training, and business development, making it a solid stepping stone into South Africa’s growing agricultural sector.
Make 2026 the year you kickstart your career, gain critical skills, and become part of South Africa’s agricultural future!
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.