The SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026 has officially opened applications, offering unemployed South African graduates a structured and SETA-funded pathway into the agricultural sector. This 12-month paid graduate placement provides practical workplace exposure, professional mentorship, and a monthly stipend of R5 000, making it one of the most accessible career–entry opportunities for agriculture-related graduates in South Africa.SAIFA AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026
Unlike many short-term internships that lack industry recognition, this programme is backed by AgriSETA and coordinated by the Southern Africa Institute for Artisans (SAIFA), ensuring compliance with national skills development standards. For graduates struggling to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and real-world experience, this placement represents a critical career-launching opportunity.
Programme Overview
The SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme is designed to place qualified graduates into agricultural host organisations for a period of 12 months, where they gain hands-on experience aligned with their field of study.
Key Programme Details
- Programme Name: SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme
- Duration: 12 months
- Stipend: R5 000 per month
- Age Requirement: 18 to 35 years
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Closing Date: 21 January 2026 at 16:30
- Application Method: Email submission
- Application Email: info@saifa.africa
- Email Subject Line: AgriSETA Graduate Placement Program
- Physical Address: 23 Monument Road, Kempton Park
This programme is not a permanent job but a structured graduate placement intended to equip participants with industry-relevant skills and experience.
Organisations Behind the Programme
Southern Africa Institute for Artisans (SAIFA)
SAIFA is a respected skills development institution specialising in training, workforce readiness, and placement coordination. While widely recognised for artisan and technical development, SAIFA also plays a crucial role in managing SETA-funded graduate placements across various sectors.
SAIFA’s approach is practical and outcome-driven:
training must lead to real work experience and employability. Through partnerships with SETAs and host employers, SAIFA ensures that graduates are placed in environments where learning and professional growth are prioritised.
AgriSETA
AgriSETA operates under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and is responsible for skills development in South Africa’s agricultural sector. Its mandate includes:
- Developing scarce and critical skills in agriculture
- Funding graduate placements, internships, and learnerships
- Promoting youth participation and transformation in agriculture
- Ensuring quality assurance aligned with national standards
When a programme is funded by AgriSETA, it signals credibility, regulatory compliance, and long-term value for a graduate’s career profile.
Fields Covered by the Programme
This graduate placement is targeted at candidates who have completed qualifications related to agriculture. Accepted fields include, but are not limited to:
- Agriculture
- Horticulture
- Animal Production
- Producing Animals
- Other agriculture-related disciplines
Applicants must hold a completed diploma or degree from a recognised institution.
Important Note on TVET Qualifications
Graduates with TVET N6 qualifications are not eligible for this programme. Only candidates who have completed a full diploma or degree will be considered.
This requirement is strictly enforced, and many applicants are disqualified each year for failing to meet this criterion. Applicants are advised to verify their qualification status before submitting an application.
Eligibility Requirements : SAIFA AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026
To qualify for the SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Unemployed graduate
- Qualification completed (diploma or degree)
- Qualification relevant to agriculture
Failure to meet any of these requirements may result in automatic disqualification.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit certified and complete documentation as part of their application. The following documents are mandatory:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID (smart card, front and back)
- Certified Matric Certificate
- Certified academic record
- Certified qualification certificate (Diploma or Degree)
- Proof of residential address
- Bank confirmation letter
Certification Rules
- All documents must be clear and readable
- Certification must be within the last three months
- Illegible or expired certifications may lead to rejection
How to Apply
Applicants must follow the application process carefully to avoid disqualification.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare all required documents
- Combine documents into one PDF file (recommended)
- Email the application to info@saifa.africa
- Use the exact subject line: AgriSETA Graduate Placement Program
- Submit before 16:30 on 21 January 2026
Late submissions are rarely considered, regardless of reason.
Understanding the R5 000 Monthly Stipend
The monthly stipend of R5 000 is intended to assist graduates with:
- Transport costs
- Basic living expenses
- Financial support during workplace learning
While it is not a full salary, the stipend allows graduates to focus on gaining valuable experience that can significantly improve future earning potential.
Common Reasons Applications Are Rejected
Many applicants are unsuccessful due to avoidable mistakes, including:
- Submitting applications after the closing date
- Missing or uncertified documents
- Using the incorrect email subject line
- Submitting an unprofessional or poorly structured CV
Applicants are strongly advised to treat this placement as a formal job application.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates who complete the SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme often progress into roles such as:
- Agricultural Technician
- Farm or Production Supervisor
- Extension Officer
- Agricultural Administrator
- Quality Assurance Officer
- Junior Animal Production Specialist
- Agribusiness Operations Assistant
Many former participants go on to secure:
- Permanent employment
- Further SETA-funded training
- Postgraduate studies
- Entrepreneurial opportunities in farming and agribusiness
The programme addresses one of the biggest challenges facing graduates: lack of practical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a 12-month graduate placement, not a permanent position.
Can I apply if I have done an internship before?
The advert does not explicitly exclude candidates with prior internship experience, but preference is generally given to graduates seeking first-time workplace exposure.
Will I receive proof of completion?
Most SETA-supported placements provide confirmation of completion, which strengthens your CV and employability.
Can I apply if I am still studying?
No. Only applicants who have completed their qualification are eligible.
Is the programme available nationwide?
Applications are accepted nationally, but placement locations depend on host organisation availability.
Closing Date Reminder
The closing date is 21 January 2026 at 16:30. Early applications receive preference, and incomplete submissions risk disqualification.
Graduates who are serious about building a career in agriculture are encouraged to apply early, prepare documents carefully, and submit a professional application.
Programme Name: SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026
Closing Date: 21 January 2026
Application Email: info@saifa.africa
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
