By Zwi Maphiri and Matsobane Manaka
Graduation ceremony of Madzivhandila College of Agriculture held at Kalahari Waterfront Resort
MEC responsible for Limpopo Department of Agricuture and Rural Development (LDARD) Nakedi Kekana has joined by members of the community and various stakeholders to witness as she conferred certificates and diplomas to graduates from Madzivhandila College of Agriculture during a ceremony held at Kalahari Waterfront Resort in Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District on 14 March 2025.
The ceremony aimed to honour, acknowledge and recognise the commitment and hardwork demonstrated by both college management and respective students as they embark on their careers.
These 38 future food producers were awarded following their dedication and perseverance in achieving the academic qualification in the field of animal and plant production. Ripfumelo Caneflly Maluleke received the Best Overall Student in Animal and Plant Production and Nthabiseng Masinamela (in absentia) got Best Student in Animal Production.
Speaking during the welcoming address, Acting Head of Department Mpho Mashamba said, through the knowledge the graduates have acquired to become agri-preneurs, they are now instrumental to improve food security, employment creation and reduction of employment.
“As graduates of Madzivhandela Agricultural College, you now hold the tools and knowledge to enter an industry that is crucial not only to our economy but to the very sustainability of our nation. Agriculture is the heartbeat of South Africa, and it is in your hands that the future of this vital sector lies.
At Madzi, our commitment has always been to produce quality, empowered, seasoned, and relevant agricultural professionals who will contribute to the growth and development of our country. We do not just prepare you to work in agriculture; we prepare you to shape its future.
In our effort to provide you with the best possible education, we understand the importance of constantly evolving our curriculum to meet the demands of the ever-changing agricultural landscape. We are committed to continuously collaborating with industry leaders and other institutions of higher learning. Partnerships with the agricultural industry are crucial in ensuring that our curriculum remains relevant, up-to-date, and aligned with the latest trends and technological advancements. Through these collaborations, we are able to equip you not just with knowledge but with the skills and practical experience needed to tackle the challenges of both today and the future”, said MEC Nakedi Kekana.
Kekana encouraged graduates to think beyond traditional roles and aim for leadership by starting their own businesses, innovate within the sector, and find solutions that fight food insecurity. She continued that the challenges the sector faces, such as ensuring sustainable food production for communities require innovative thinkers like those of graduates. “It is essential that we, as a nation, address food insecurity and empower our communities to become self-sufficient. Your role in this endeavour will be fundamental.
“To our graduates, I leave you with this: the world needs your passion, your creativity, and your leadership. As you step into the future, remember that the agricultural sector is more than just a career—it is a mission to improve the lives of our people, protect our environment, and secure a better future for generations to come.
Congratulations once again on reaching this important milestone. You are now the custodians of our agricultural future, and I have no doubt that each of you will rise to the occasion and make a meaningful contribution to the growth of South Africa”, MEC noted.
Madzivhandila College of Agriculture is a center of excellence in imparting technological knowledge and skills for sustainable agricultural sector. It is fully accreditated by Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA) who partnered with the department on agricultural education and training programme including funding, capacity building and bursaries to students.
