By REGINALD KANYANE
23 April 2025- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it invites aspiring agriculturists to apply for the 2026 academic intake at Taung Agricultural College (TAC) and Potchefstroom College of Agriculture (PCA). The department said applications officially opened on 1 April 2025 and will close on 31 October 2025.
The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, has called on all prospective students to apply early to avoid late submissions and the risk of missing this life-changing opportunity. Sambatha said agriculture is the backbone of the province’s economy and the youth are the future of this vital sector.
“I urge all young people with a passion for farming and food production to apply without delay. Do not wait until the last minute, secure your space now and prepare to grow with the industry.
“TAC and PCA are more than academic institutions. They are catalysts for cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders. Whether aspiring to become innovative farmers, cutting-edge researchers, skilled technicians, or forward-thinking agribusiness professionals, students are equipped with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the sector,” he said.
Sambatha further said these colleges offer in-demand diploma programmes tailored to meet the evolving needs of agriculture: a Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation) at Taung Agricultural College and a Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture) at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture. He added that, admission requirements for TAC’s Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation) include a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification, with English at Level 4, Life Sciences or Agricultural Sciences at Level 3, Mathematics at Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy at Level 4, and Physical Sciences at Level 3 as an advantage.
“PCA’s Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture) requires Afrikaans or English at a minimum of Level 4 (50–59%), with compulsory subjects such as Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Management Practices, or Agricultural Technology.
“Mathematics, Physical Science, Business Economics, Life Sciences, Accounting, Mathematical Literacy, and Engineering are recommended. Applicants must obtain at least 24 points on the Swedish Rating Scale, with Level 3 or higher in six relevant subjects, excluding Life Orientation,” said Sambatha.
He said application forms can be collected directly from the respective colleges or downloaded from the Department’s website at www.dard.nwpg.gov.za. Sambatha said enrolling at TAC or PCA is not just a choice, it is a must for anyone serious about becoming a force in agriculture.
“TAC is the only institution in South Africa offering a Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation), equipping students with niche skills in water-smart farming. PCA offers a robust and comprehensive Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture), opening doors across the agricultural value chain.
“Both colleges are known for practical training, expert instruction, and producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Choosing one of these colleges means choosing a future of purpose, productivity, and agricultural excellence,” he said.
Sambatha said interested individuals can apply now by visiting the Department’s website or contacting the colleges directly for assistance with the application process.
Taung Agricultural College (TAC):
Vuyiswa Mziwakhe: +27 60 504 814
Neo Makhobela: +27 68 379 3026
Potchefstroom College of Agriculture (PCA):
Mr Ismail Haffejee: +27 18 285 0701
Ms Lebo Mpiti: +27 18 285 0700
Ms Patricia Mngomezulu: +27 18 285 0735
The Guardian 