By Baakedi Rachidi
A new cohort take pledge on the importance of ethical conduct, accountability and transparency in public service.
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) held a two-day induction programme for a new cohort of Assistant Agricultural Practitioners (AAPs), which commenced on 5 February 2026 at Fumani Lodge, Waterberg District.
The programme brought together 42 newly appointed AAPs from across the province and was tailored to familiarise them with the department’s policies, mandates, service delivery protocols, reporting systems and their critical role in providing extension and advisory services to farmers and rural communities.
Through a series of presentations and interactive sessions, practitioners were introduced to departmental and administrative areas, including Strategic Management, Monitorng and Evaluation and an overview of Organisational Development. The induction also covered Human Resource Management processes, the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS), Employee Relations as well as Employee Health and Wellness programmes. Other key focus areas included Security and Facilities Management and Records Management which underscored the need for accurate documentation and compliance, while presentations on Risk Management provided insights into identifying and mitigating potential operational challenges.
Further discussions focused on Anti-Corruption and Integrity Management reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct, accountability and transparency in public service. Presentation on Transport Management concluded the programme, equipping AAPs with knowledge on the efficient use, care and maintenance of government vehicles.
An interactive question-and-answer session provided clarity on expectations and performance standards while also giving practitioners an opportunity to share their perspectives. One AAP remarked “We are hungry to serve the department. Give us the tools. We are willing to reconfigure ourselves to achieve what is expected of us.” Responding to the concerns and aspirations raised, Mr. Levi Mashiane reassured the practitioners, stating “The Department will take care of you, you must take care of yourselves and your work.” He further affirmed that “their appointment represents a good investment by the department.”
The induction programme reinforced the department’s dedication to youth empowerment, job creation and inclusive economic growth within the agricultural sector and Limpopo Province at large.
Levi Mashiane, Director for Strategic Management
