Hortgro Bursary Programme to Foster Future Leaders in South African Deciduous Fruit Industry

Stellenbosch, South Africa – August 20, 2024 – The South African deciduous fruit industry body, Hortgro, has spent more than R55m over the past decade on bursaries.

The Hortgro Bursary Programme (HBP) aims to support and nurture the next generation of industry leaders and researchers. The HBP is designed to assist talented and ambitious students pursuing careers relevant to the deciduous fruit industry, including agricultural sciences, horticulture, business management, and environmental sustainability. The programme aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education, allowing recipients to focus on their studies and contribute to the industry’s growth and innovation.

“Investing in the future of our industry is crucial,” said Hortgro Executive Director, Anton Rabe. “By supporting students through our bursary programme, we are helping them achieve their educational goals and fostering a new generation of professionals who will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the deciduous fruit sector. This initiative underscores Hortgro’s commitment to advancing the sector and ensuring its long-term sustainability.”

Previous Hortgro bursary holder and PhD candidate, Ayesha Shaikh Abrahams, who completed her undergrad studies through Hortgro, shared her academic journey with fellow students. “Post-graduate studies are not for everyone, but persevering against all odds has taught me about myself. Don’t think about big pay cheques and fancy titles, the important thing is to do what you like and keep challenging yourself.”

Industry leader and the Hortgro OSH Reinecke Frontrunner for 2024, Pieter du Toit, said one of his beliefs is “continuous education and growth”.

Du Toit said that in life good business strategy is focusing internally and nurturing talent, and not being distracted by instability and political turmoil on the outside.  “South African agriculture found itself at an inflection point[i] in 1997 with the deregulation of agriculture. I believe we are at another inflection point. The Fourth Industrial Revolution will fundamentally change agriculture. We must be ready to board that train, otherwise we will never catch it.”

He encouraged students to keep “at it” because the industry will need researchers and educated leaders to survive and grow. “Agriculture is a great place to be with many opportunities.”

The HBP offers a range of benefits, including full or partial coverage of tuition fees, a stipend for study-related expenses, and opportunities for practical experience through internships and mentorships with leading industry professionals. Recipients will also gain access to Hortgro’s network of experts, providing them with valuable industry insights and connections that will enhance their career prospects.

Applications for the Hortgro Bursary Programme are open to South African students currently enrolled in or applying to undergraduate or postgraduate programs related to the deciduous fruit industry. The selection process is based on academic excellence, demonstrated passion for the industry, and potential for future contributions to the sector.

Through the Hortgro Bursary Programme, Hortgro is investing in the industry’s future and reinforcing its role as a global leader in deciduous fruit production, advancing the sector’s sustainability, innovation and global competitiveness.

Fast Facts About the HBP:

• HBP currently boasts 21 undergraduate students at a cost of R1.3m; studying at SU, Elsenburg, CPUT, North-West University, CTU (Creative Technology Universitas) and the University of Cape Town.
• Hortgro Science currently supports 32 post-graduate students (18 female and 14 male) at a cost of R3.4m.

• For the 2025 HBP, more than 950 applications were received (bursary applications closed on 15 August 2024).
• Some of the Hortgro bursary holders form part of the Hortgro Mentorship Programme. Currently, 36 students are placed in the following areas: Ceres, KBV, Paarl, Stellenbosch, Tulbagh, Wellington, Piketberg, Simondium, Porterville, Villiersdorp, and Avontuur.

For more information about the Hortgro Bursary Programme, please visit www.hortgro.co.za or contact Astrid Arendse: at astrid@hortgro.co.za

[i] (In business, an inflection point is an event that results in a significant change in the progress of an industry).

CAPTION: At the Hortgro Bursary Function: Pieter du Toit (Hortgro Frontrunner 2024), Ayesha Shaikh Abrahams (previous bursary holder), and Astrid Arendse (Hortgro).