By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Agriculture is no longer just about ploughing fields. It is a strategic, innovative, and future-defining sector with the power to transform communities and rebuild South Africa’s economy. As the country navigates climate pressures, rising food prices, and youth unemployment, agriculture offers purpose-driven careers that sustain livelihoods, strengthen food systems, and open opportunities far beyond the farm gate.
From crop insurance to research laboratories, processing plants to policy boardrooms, agriculture needs thinkers, scientists, analysts, innovators, and young leaders. With the right training and support, today’s students can shape tomorrow’s food security.
Voices From the Field: Careers That Inspire
For many young South Africans, agriculture becomes a calling once they see its deeper impact.
Take agricultural economist Banelise Mhlangu, whose journey began in Mamelodi. She never considered agriculture until she discovered agricultural economics. “I never saw agriculture as a career until I realised it’s about optimising resources to sustain life.” Today her work focuses on systems change and empowering communities through smarter agricultural value chains.
Agricultural scientist Alfred Moloto echoes that conviction. With experience working with the African Union Commission and UN agencies, he supports emerging farmers with climate-smart practices, market access and postharvest solutions. “Agriculture isn’t the sector of the past – it’s the sector of the future. Start small, think big, and stay consistent.”
Post-harvest researcher Ngwanamakgamatho Naledi Setsiba, raised in Mokopane and now completing her PhD, is determined to solve food insecurity through reducing food loss. “We need more young black women shaping the future of food. Start where you are and xplore the opportunities.”
Meanwhile, Omphile Sehoole, Area Manager for Crop Insurance at Santam, is safeguarding farmers against increased climate risk. Crop insurance, once overlooked, is now essential for resilience and continuity. “The future is data-driven and shaped by technology. If young people embrace innovation, they can transform farming and build a food-secure South Africa.”
Together, these voices show the breadth of agri-careers, scientists, economists, risk specialists, development practitioners, and all connected by the desire to protect food systems and build thriving communities.
The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026: A Gateway to Opportunity
For matriculants and young people inspired by agriculture, Land Bank is opening the door. The Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 offers full financial support for undergraduate studies at accredited agricultural colleges registered with the Council for Higher Education.
The bursary aligns with careers that strengthen agricultural development and rural transformation. Whether a student dreams of sustainable farming, food technology, livestock production, or climate adaptation, this programme creates access to meaningful, future-proof careers.
Applications are now open. To apply:
Download the application form from the Land Bank website under bursary opportunities.
https://landbank.co.za/Pages/Bursary-Opportunities.aspx
Submit the completed form and all supporting documents to bursaries@landbank.co.za.
Applications close on 5 January 2026.
Start Growing Your Future Today
South Africa needs young leaders who are ready to plant knowledge, cultivate innovation and harvest opportunity. Agriculture is calling the next generation of scientists, producers and policymakers—young people who believe in possibility and want to build change from the ground up.
Now is the moment to step into a field where careers grow futures. Apply for the Land Bank Bursary Programme 2026 and begin your journey in agriculture.
