Ninety small-scale livestock farmers from North West and Limpopo recently completed the University of Pretoria’s (UP’s) Small Scale Farmer Development Programme, marking a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen South Africa’s rural economies and food systems.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Onderstepoort campus, recognised farmers who were equipped with the necessary skills to participate in formal agricultural markets. The programme, run by the Faculty of Veterinary Science and funded by Sibanye-Stillwater through Enterprise@UP, delivers practical, solution-driven training in primary animal healthcare.
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The training enables farmers to improve herd health, increase productivity, reduce disease risk and meet the standards required for formal and export markets. By addressing longstanding gaps in livestock quality and production practices, the initiative unlocks new pathways for small-scale farmers to enter and compete in the agricultural value chain.
Veterinary Excellence Supports Rural Development
“As the most advanced veterinary hospital on the continent, we are proud to equip farmers with the skills to improve animal health and productivity,” said Professor Vinny Naidoo, dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Science. “This programme supports family income, community nutrition and national food security, and we want to see graduates grow from small-scale operations into sustainable farming businesses.”
To the graduates, he emphasised: “Today is just the beginning. Share your knowledge and experiences within your communities so that we can collectively grow and strengthen our farming systems.”
For many graduates, the training is already delivering results. One graduate noted that improved animal health practices have led to stronger, more market-ready livestock, opening opportunities to supply local buyers and formal markets for the first time.
Universities Must Serve Society Beyond Lecture Halls
Professor Sunil Maharaj, UP vice-principal for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Education, positioned the initiative as a model for impactful, partnership-driven development.
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“Today is a celebration of empowerment and the transformative power of knowledge,” he said. “Universities must serve society beyond lecture halls, reaching farms, villages and communities where impact is most needed.”
He noted that the programme directly contributes to addressing structural challenges across the continent. “Africa continues to grapple with poverty, unemployment and inequality. Through initiatives like this, we are equipping farmers with the skills to strengthen livelihoods and build resilient food systems. Partnerships between universities, industry and government are essential to unlocking sustainable development.”
The programme also advances inclusive development, with 30% of participants being young people and 35% women, highlighting agriculture’s role in empowering underrepresented groups and revitalising rural economies.
Agriculture: The New Platinum
“Agriculture is the future and the new platinum,” said Thabisile Phumo, executive vice-president of stakeholder relations at Sibanye-Stillwater. “As long as there are people, there will be a need for food. The opportunity now is for farmers to use their skills to access markets, supply value chains and build sustainable businesses.”
Phumo emphasised the long-term vision behind the investment. “Mining will not last forever. Our responsibility is to help create sustainable economies that will continue to thrive beyond the life of the mines. With the land, livestock and now the knowledge, farmers are positioned to participate meaningfully in the economy.”
Government Partnership Essential
Matshediso Mangoathe, a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Agriculture and Local Economic Development in the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality, commended the graduates’ discipline and commitment.
“You have demonstrated dedication and purpose by completing this programme. That commitment is what will set you apart and drive success in your communities,” she said. “We must support small-scale farmers to improve standards through better feeding systems, reproduction practices and stronger value chains. This is how we build a competitive and sustainable agricultural sector. The government cannot do this alone. Partnerships like this must expand to reach more communities and deepen impact.”
The graduation reflects a solution-driven approach to rural development, linking education, industry investment and community engagement to unlock economic participation. With their new qualification, graduates are equipped not only to improve livestock production but also to build viable enterprises, create employment and contribute to a more inclusive agricultural economy.
Farmer Success Story
Sandra Mphahlele, one of the beneficiaries of the programme, said her journey into small-scale animal production began with a passion for food security, sustainability and community development. “I got into animal production for reasons like food security, my love for animals and wanting a sustainable lifestyle,” she said.
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She explained that challenges such as climate change, disease management and limited market access pushed her to adopt more resilient farming methods, including regenerative practices and niche production. “The skills I’ve learnt will help me drive positive change in my community by improving food security and creating jobs,” she said.
About the Programme
The UP’s Small Scale Farmer Development Programme represents a collaborative effort between the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Sibanye-Stillwater and Enterprise@UP to address critical gaps in South Africa’s agricultural value chain while building sustainable rural economies for the future.
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