Discover how AGRISETA student learning support empowers South African learners through bursaries, training and career pathways in agriculture
Understanding AGRISETA and Student Learning Support
In South Africa, the agricultural sector is more than farming—it is a key driver of food security, job creation, and sustainable development. But like any industry, it depends on a skilled, motivated workforce.
This is where AGRISETA (Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority) steps in. AGRISETA provides student learning support programs that empower young people and workers with the skills, funding, and experience needed to succeed in agriculture.
From bursaries and learnerships to training programs and internships, AGRISETA ensures that students—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—get a fair chance to thrive in one of South Africa’s most important industries.
What Is AGRISETA?
A Sector Education and Training Authority
- AGRISETA is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs, focused on agriculture and rural development.
- Its mission is to develop, transform, and professionalize the agricultural workforce.
AGRISETA’s Core Functions
- Funding education and training in agricultural studies.
- Accrediting colleges, TVET institutions, and training providers.
- Supporting rural youth and small farmers with skills development.
- Creating employment pathways through internships and workplace programs.
AGRISETA Student Learning Support Explained
AGRISETA’s student learning support isn’t just about financial aid—it’s a holistic approach that combines:
- Education bursaries for higher learning.
- Learnerships blending classroom and practical training.
- Internships and workplace exposure.
- Skills development courses for farmers and rural youth.
- Support for adult learners who want to re-skill.
This makes AGRISETA a vital bridge between students and the agricultural industry.
Types of AGRISETA Student Learning Programs
1. Bursaries for Agricultural Studies
AGRISETA offers bursaries covering:
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation and meals.
- Learning materials.
- Transport costs.
Fields covered include:
- Agricultural Science.
- Animal Production.
- Crop Science.
- Food Technology.
- Veterinary Studies.
- Agricultural Engineering.
2. Learnerships
- Targeted at unemployed youth and workers.
- Provide practical skills like farm management, agri-processing, or agribusiness.
- Learners receive stipends during training.
3. Skills Development Programs
- Short courses for quick upskilling.
- Examples: sustainable farming, agro-processing, farm safety.
- Useful for both students and small-scale farmers.
4. Internships and Workplace Experience
- AGRISETA places students in farms, labs, and agri-businesses.
- Helps learners gain real-world agricultural exposure.
5. Adult Learning and Worker Training
- Focuses on workers needing re-skilling.
- Supports lifelong learning in rural communities.
Who Qualifies for AGRISETA Learning Support?
- South African citizens.
- Students from disadvantaged or rural backgrounds.
- Matric graduates accepted into agricultural studies.
- TVET college or university students in relevant fields.
- Unemployed youth seeking skills.
- Workers looking to upgrade qualifications.
How to Apply for AGRISETA Support
Step 1: Research Opportunities
- Visit AGRISETA’s official website or check notices at TVET colleges.
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Certified ID copy.
- Proof of income or affidavit.
- Matric results or academic record.
- Proof of registration/acceptance letter.
Step 3: Submit Application
- Online portal or college bursary office.
Step 4: Await Feedback
- Successful applicants are contacted for interviews or confirmation.
Pro Tip: Apply early. Funding is limited and competition is high.
Benefits of AGRISETA Student Learning Support
1. Financial Relief
Bursaries cover tuition, accommodation, and learning resources.
2. Equal Opportunities
Helps rural and disadvantaged students access higher education.
3. Skills for the Future
Focus on critical and scarce skills in agriculture.
4. Employment Pathways
Internships and learnerships link directly to jobs.
5. Industry Growth
By training skilled professionals, AGRISETA strengthens food security and economic development.
Real-Life Success Stories
Lerato’s Journey – Crop Science Student
Lerato, from Limpopo, received an AGRISETA bursary. Today, she’s a crop scientist helping local farmers improve yields with sustainable methods.
Sipho’s Path – Learnership to Agribusiness
Sipho completed an AGRISETA learnership in Agri-processing. With the stipend and training, he launched a small agro-processing company that now employs six people.
Amina’s Dream – Veterinary Studies
Amina, supported by AGRISETA, studied Veterinary Science. She now runs a mobile clinic serving rural farmers who previously had no access to veterinary care.
Challenges in AGRISETA Student Support
- High Demand vs Limited Funding.
- Thousands apply, but only a fraction receive bursaries.
- Application Delays.
- Processing can take time, leading to student uncertainty.
- Awareness Gaps.
- Many rural learners are unaware of AGRISETA opportunities.
- Placement Issues.
- Some students struggle to find workplaces for practical training.
Solutions and Improvements
- Stronger Outreach Campaigns in schools and rural communities.
- Simplified Digital Applications to reduce paperwork.
- Faster Processing Systems for bursaries and stipends.
- More Partnerships with Farms and Agri-Businesses for placements.
The Future of AGRISETA Student Support
Looking ahead, AGRISETA is expected to expand by:
- Funding more green agriculture skills like climate-smart farming.
- Increasing digital training in agri-tech.
- Supporting female farmers and entrepreneurs.
- Building international partnerships for exchange programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does AGRISETA cover postgraduate studies?
- Yes, some bursaries fund Honours, Masters, and research projects in agricultural fields.
Q2: Do bursaries need repayment?
- No, AGRISETA bursaries are not repayable.
Q3: Can unemployed youth apply?
- Yes, through learnerships and skills programs.
Q4: How much is the monthly stipend for learnerships?
- Amounts vary, but stipends usually cover transport and basic needs.
Q5: Where can I check bursary openings?
- On the AGRISETA website and accredited TVET college notices.
Conclusion – AGRISETA Builds Pathways for Students
The AGRISETA Student Learning Support Program is more than funding—it’s a pathway to education, employment, and empowerment. By focusing on bursaries, learnerships, and internships, AGRISETA ensures that students gain the skills needed to transform the agricultural sector and improve food security.
For learners, AGRISETA represents an opportunity to:
- Study without financial stress.
- Gain real-world agricultural skills.
- Build careers that uplift communities.
In agriculture, growth starts with a seed. For students, that seed is AGRISETA learning support.