In reflecting on education and training authority for the agriculture sector AgriSETA’s accomplishments for the 2023/24 financial year, chairperson Sharon Sepeng lauded the organisation for having surpassed its artisan development targets well ahead of schedule.

Given that artisanal skills are some of the most scarce and highly sought-after in South Africa, this achievement is particularly significant.

Sepeng emphasised in a statement on November 18 that skilled artisans were critical to the agriculture industry, and AgriSETA’s ability to attract and retain these professionals – especially in the context of South Africa's high unemployment rate and the barriers to entry in agriculture – represented a major step forward.

“This milestone is not just about meeting targets but about creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers who are essential for the long-term success of the sector,” she added.  

In addition to these gains, AgriSETA also earned a clean audit for the year, further demonstrating its commitment to transparency and efficient use of resources.

Sepeng said this combination of achievements underscored AgriSETA's role as a pivotal player in addressing the skills shortage in agriculture and contributing to the broader socioeconomic development of the country.

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

With South Africa's agriculture sector being one of the key drivers of economic growth, women represent a significant yet often underrepresented force in this critical industry.

AgriSETA has been at the forefront of efforts to bridge the gender gap, amplify women’s voices, and to provide access to the resources they need to take their rightful place in shaping the future of agriculture.

The challenges facing women in agriculture are multifaceted, ranging from limited access to finance and training, to structural inequalities that hinder their participation at all levels.

Despite these obstacles, women continue to play a critical role in food security, rural development, and environmental sustainability, Sepeng noted, adding that their contributions were not only essential for the survival of communities but were also key to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

As part of its broader vision, AgriSETA seeks to address the urgent need for increased funding, enhanced access to education and training and the adoption of effective environmental, social and governance practices. Sepeng deems these actions necessary to unlock the potential of women in agriculture.

She stressed the importance of fostering an environment in which women could lead with confidence, drive innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the transformation of the agriculture sector.

"Women are not just beneficiaries of change in agriculture, they are the architects of it," noted AgriSETA CEO Innocent Sirovha.

He added that the organisation was witnessing a paradigm shift where women were at the forefront of driving innovation, sustainability and food security.

In this regard, it is crucial that they are supported with the right resources, including funding, skills development and partnerships, to ensure they are able to lead with confidence and shape the future of agriculture.

The challenges of climate change and the need for renewable-energy solutions presented both risks and opportunities for women in agriculture, Sirovha continued.

“Women are often the first to feel the impacts of climate change, yet they are also key agents of change in promoting climate resilience through sustainable farming practices and the adoption of renewable-energy technologies.”

AgriSETA remains committed to fostering innovation and the adoption of green technologies that support both environmental sustainability and women’s economic empowerment.

"As we continue to navigate the challenges facing women in agriculture, it is clear that collaboration is our most powerful tool. We must work together - across sectors and industries - to create an ecosystem that not only supports women but champions their leadership in transforming the agriculture sector,” Sirovha concluded.