The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is excited to announce the opening of applications for its Learnership Program for the 2024/2025 cycle. This program provides a valuable opportunity for individuals passionate about agriculture and rural development to gain practical experience, develop crucial skills, and contribute to impactful projects within communities.
The department encourages those interested in building a career in this essential sector to apply and take the first step towards a rewarding future.
Learnership Program Overview:
- The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is offering learnership opportunities for unemployed youth in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Successful candidates will sign a 12-month contract with the Department.
- Enrolled learners will receive a monthly stipend as per the Department of Public Service and Administration’s guidelines for youth development programs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen residing in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Age: Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Employment Status: Must be unemployed.
Educational Requirements:
NQF Level 02/03 (Basic Enlistment):
- Animal/Plant Production:
- Possess AET Level 4/Standard 7/Grade 9/10.
- Alternatively, have completed NQF Level 1/2 in Animal or Plant Production.
NQF Level 04:
- Animal/Plant Production:
- Grade 12/Standard 10 with passes in English, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences.
- Alternatively, completed NQF Level 3 in Animal or Plant Production.
Learnership Opportunities by District and NQF Level:
NQF Level 2: Animal Production
- Amajuba: 2 positions
- EThekwini District: 1 position
- Harry Gwala: 2 positions
- ILembe: 2 positions
- King Cetshwayo: 2 positions
- UGu: 2 positions
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 2 positions
- UMgungundlovu: 1 position
- Umzinyathi: 2 positions
- Zululand: 2 positions
- Total: 20 positions
NQF Level 2: Plant Production
- Amajuba: 1 position
- EThekwini District: 2 positions
- Harry Gwala: 2 positions
- ILembe: 2 positions
- King Cetshwayo: 2 positions
- UGu: 1 position
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 2 positions
- UMgungundlovu: 2 positions
- Umzinyathi: 2 positions
- Zululand: 2 positions
- Total: 20 positions
NQF Level 3: Animal Production
- Amajuba: 2 positions
- EThekwini District: 2 positions
- Harry Gwala: 1 position
- ILembe: 1 position
- King Cetshwayo: 2 positions
- UGu: 2 positions
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 2 positions
- UMgungundlovu: 2 positions
- Umzinyathi: 2 positions
- Zululand: 2 positions
- Total: 20 positions
NQF Level 3: Plant Production
- Amajuba: 2 positions
- EThekwini District: 2 positions
- Harry Gwala: 2 positions
- ILembe: 2 positions
- King Cetshwayo: 1 position
- UGu: 2 positions
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 1 position
- UMgungundlovu: 2 positions
- Umzinyathi: 2 positions
- Zululand: 2 positions
- Total: 20 positions
NQF Level 4: Animal Production
- Amajuba: 2 positions
- EThekwini District: 2 positions
- Harry Gwala: 2 positions
- ILembe: 2 positions
- King Cetshwayo: 2 positions
- UGu: 2 positions
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 2 positions
- UMgungundlovu: 2 positions
- Umzinyathi: 1 position
- Zululand: 1 position
- Total: 20 positions
NQF Level 4: Plant Production Learnership Program
- Amajuba: 2 positions
- EThekwini District: 2 positions
- Harry Gwala: 2 positions
- ILembe: 2 positions
- King Cetshwayo: 2 positions
- UGu: 1 position
- UMkhanyakude: 2 positions
- UThukela: 2 positions
- UMgungundlovu: 1 position
- Umzinyathi: 2 positions
- Zululand: 2 positions
- Total: 20 positions
How to Apply:
- Obtain the application form from the Department’s website: www.dard.gov.za.
- Complete the form in your own handwriting. Ensure no sections are left empty and the form is signed and dated.
- Attach the following documents:
- Application letter
- Certified copies of educational qualifications
- Identity Document (ID)
- An affidavit indicating your district or local of residence
Submission Instructions:
- Post Applications:
- To the Head of Department, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, South Service Center, Private Bag X9059, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
- Or to the North Service Center, Private Bag X 1048, Richards Bay, 3900
- Hand Deliver:
- Cedara Offices (Head Office): Upper Ground Floor, Main Building, R103 Cedara off-ramp
- South Service Center Offices (Hilton): 4 Pin Oak Avenue, Hilton, Pietermaritzburg
- North Service Centre Offices (Richards Bay): Lot 11634, Corner of Verbena and Aloe Loop Street, Velden Vlei, Richards Bay
Closing Date:
- 28 August 2024
Enquiries:
- Mr. T.E. Majola: Tel 033 343 8012
- Mrs. Z. Mthembu: Tel 035 780 6727
Important Note:
- Applications not adhering to the above instructions will be disqualified.
- If no communication is received within three (3) months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
HINT: Building a Winning CV: Tips for Success in South African Government Jobs
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is enthusiastic about offering these Learnership Program and eagerly anticipates applications from motivated individuals ready to make a difference in agriculture and rural development. Participants in this program will gain invaluable experience and play a role in advancing the sector in KwaZulu-Natal.
For any additional queries or assistance with the application process, candidates are encouraged to contact the provided support. The Department wishes all applicants the best of luck and looks forward to welcoming new talent to their team.
