EXCITING NEW ACCREDITED AGRICULTURAL COURSES AT  SHUKELA TRAINING CENTRE

Nolwazi Madlala

As the landscape of agriculture continues to evolve rapidly, Shukela Training Centre (STC) is committed to keeping pace with these changes by introducing innovative training programs tailored to current industry needs. STC latest offerings are designed to support growers in diversifying their operations in alignment with the Sugar Master Plan and broader agricultural trends.

Above: Farm Financial Management 1 (FFM1 – new course) learners, facilitated by Ms. Zanele Ngema, our STC Agricultural Training Instructor. These learners are from Tongaat Hulett Limited.

STC is excited to introduce to you two new occupational qualifications at NQF Level 3: Occupational Certificate: Livestock Farmer (Livestock Farm Supervisor) and the Occupational Certificate: Landscape Gardener (Landscaping Supervisor). These comprehensive one-year accredited programmes aim to equip learners with practical skills for careers in livestock farming and gardening. Upon completing the Livestock program, participants will be proficient in monitoring livestock health, administering healthcare treatments, managing breeding and production practices, and leading work teams on a farm. Meanwhile, the Landscape Gardener qualification prepares learners to operate effectively as landscaping supervisors, overseeing gardening projects and maintaining aesthetic and functional outdoor spaces.

Additionally, STC has expanded its health and safety training offerings to include the Occupational Skills Programme: Basic Emergency First Aid Responder NQF Level 2. This qualification fulfils essential occupational health and safety requirements mandated by the Department of Labour, ensuring that farm workers are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies.

From top, left to right: (1) Learners enrolled in the National Certificate in Plant Production Level 4 (accredited by AgriSETA) participating in farm practicals with Siyazisiza Trust in Obanjeni. (2) Farm Financial Management 1 (FFM1) learners, facilitated by Zanele Ngema, our STC Agricultural Training Instructor. These learners are from RCL FOODS.
(3) Learner enrolled in the Occupational Skills Programme for Basic Emergency First Aid Responder (NQF Level 2) performing CPR. (4) Learners enrolled in the Occupational Skills Programme: Basic Emergency First Aid Responder (NQF Level 2) practicing the proper technique for using a stretcher to move a patient. 

The STC learnership scope has also increased to include National Certificate: Horticulture NQF Level 2, National Certificate: Agricultural Equipment Service Repair NQF Level 2, and National Certificate: Mixed Farming Systems NQF Level 2, all accredited by AgriSETA. These qualifications aim to enhance skills across various agricultural disciplines and promote sustainable farming practices.

For operational efficiency, STC has received accreditation the following occupational skills programmes: Occupational Skills Programme: Counterbalanced Lift Truck F1, Occupational Skills Programme: Counterbalanced Lift Truck F2; Occupational Skills Programme: Counterbalanced Lift Truck F3 and Occupational Skills Programme: Counterbalanced Lift Truck F4, accredited under QCTO. All these skills programmes are at NQF Level 3. Training in the skills programmes enable learners to conduct pre-start checks, safely operate and manoeuvre lift trucks, and perform refuelling and shutdown procedures, ensuring compliance and safety on farms.

The STC remains dedicated to providing industry-relevant, accredited training solutions that empower farmers and agricultural workers to thrive in a dynamic sector.

For bookings or further information, please contact us at Agriculture.Bookings@sasa.org.za.