Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute Graduation Ceremony 2013

Gerrit van Rensburg, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, recently congratulated students who graduated at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute. A total of 114 students received their qualifications.

These comprised:

• Nine diplomas
• 11 Equine Studies qualifications
• 67 Bachelor of Agriculture degrees
• 27 Higher Certificates

Van Rensburg told the students that they will have to find solutions to the many challenges which exist in agriculture today. “Climate change, an increasing world population, land reform and competitive international markets are but a few of the many challenges you will have to face”.

Van Rensburg said it is of the utmost importance to equip agricultural students with the best possible training and education. He said he was concerned about the proposed plans to incorporate all agricultural colleges under the National Department of Higher Education and Training.

“Elsenburg is currently managed by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, which is one of the best government departments in South Africa. I cannot see why we should move it a department which does not have a good performance record.” Van Rensburg said he will oppose any such actions in court if necessary.