The SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026 is now open, offering unemployed South African graduates a 12-month paid workplace placement in the agricultural sector.
This programme goes beyond short-term exposure. It is a SETA-funded, quality-assured placement designed to help graduates gain real, structured work experience in agriculture — one of South Africa’s most essential and fast-evolving industries. Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of R5 000 while building practical skills that employers actively look for.
Programme Snapshot
- Programme Name: SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme
- Duration: 12 months
- Monthly Stipend: R5 000
- Age Range: 18 – 35 years
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Closing Date: 21 January 2026 at 16:30
- Application Method: Email application
- Application Email: info@saifa.africa
- Email Subject Line: AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme
- Physical Address: 23 Monument Road, Kempton Park
Fields of Study Covered
This placement programme is strictly aimed at agriculture-related qualifications. Graduates may apply if they hold a completed Diploma or Degree in:
- Agriculture
- Horticulture
- Animal Production
- Any other agriculture-related qualification
Important Qualification Notice
- TVET N6 qualifications are NOT accepted
- Only completed Diplomas or Degrees qualify
Many applications are rejected due to this requirement, so ensure your qualification meets the criteria before applying.
About the Organisations
Southern Africa Institute for Artisans (SAIFA)
SAIFA is a well-established skills development organisation that focuses on training, employability, and graduate placement coordination. While widely recognised for artisan development, SAIFA also manages graduate placement programmes funded by SETAs.
Their guiding principle is clear:
Skills training must lead to real workplace exposure.
AgriSETA
AgriSETA operates under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and is responsible for skills development in South Africa’s agricultural sector.
AgriSETA-funded programmes:
- Align with national skills priorities
- Follow recognised quality standards
- Carry strong credibility on a graduate’s CV
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Between 18 and 35 years old
- Currently unemployed
- Completed a Diploma or Degree in an agriculture-related field
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit certified copies of the following:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified South African ID (smart card – front and back)
- Certified Matric Certificate
- Certified Academic Record
- Certified Qualification Certificate (Diploma or Degree)
- Proof of Residence
- Bank Confirmation Letter
Certification Rules
All documents must be:
- Clear and readable
- Properly certified
- Certified within the last 3 months
Incomplete or incorrectly certified applications are likely to be disqualified.
How to Apply
Follow these steps carefully to avoid disqualification:
- Prepare all required documents
- Combine documents into one clear PDF file (recommended)
- Email your application to: info@saifa.africa
- Use the exact subject line: AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme
- Submit before 21 January 2026 at 16:30
⏰ Late applications are usually not considered, so apply early.
Understanding the R5 000 Monthly Stipend
The monthly stipend is designed to:
- Assist with transport costs
- Support basic living expenses
- Allow graduates to focus on skills development and workplace learning
While it is not a full salary, the placement provides experience that significantly improves long-term employability in the agricultural sector.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates who complete this programme often move into roles such as:
- Agricultural Technician
- Farm or Production Supervisor
- Extension Officer
- Agricultural Administrator
- Quality Assurance Officer
- Agribusiness Officer
- Junior Animal Production Specialist
Many participants progress to:
- Permanent employment
- Further SETA-funded programmes
- Postgraduate studies
- Entrepreneurship in farming or agri-processing
Practical experience is often the missing link — and this programme helps bridge that gap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this programme paid?
Yes. Participants receive R5 000 per month for the full 12 months.
Are TVET N6 graduates eligible?
No. TVET N6 qualifications are not accepted.
Is this an internship?
It is a graduate placement programme, offering structured workplace exposure rather than short-term observation.
Can employed graduates apply?
No. Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application.
How must applications be submitted?
Applications must be submitted by email only.
Related Opportunities on SETACareers
- City of Joburg Valuer Graduate Internship Programme 2026 (X10 Posts)
- Visa Opens Paid Internship Opportunities for South African Students in 2026
- Old Mutual Corporate Internship Programme 2026 – Apply Now
- Paid Government Internships Open for Graduates – DSI NYS Programme 2026
- Paid SHEQ Internships Open at Council for Geoscience – 24 Months, R13,000 Stipend
