The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform recently visited Nelson Mandela University's Missionvale Campus to discuss food security.
“Our collaboration started when we attended the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), where we interacted with the then Dean of Students, Luthando Jack,” she said.
Ms Matsheketwa emphasised that her department strives to be part of a larger movement in entrepreneurship, mentioning their two-year programme for unemployed agricultural graduates. She also discussed the work between commodity groups in agriculture and collaborating with academia.
Sharon Masiza, Senior Director for Missionvale, Second Avenue, and Bird Street Campuses, welcomed the department and provided an overview of the campus.
Irna Senekal and Dr Mea van Huyssteen
This was followed by a series of presentations by Irna Senekal, researcher at the Centre for Integrated Post-School Education and Training (CIPSET).
Dr Mea van Huyssteen from the Medical School, presented the Medicinal Garden, giving its background and objectives, after which the delegates went on a tour of the campus, visiting the greenhouse and aquaponics facility.
Unathi Sihlahla of INMED South Africa presented their journey and work in various parts of the country.
Ms Matsheketwa also said: “The work being done here is remarkable, and we have seen the real strength in working together, and we look forward to collaborating with the campus” said, who was particularly impressed by the young women engaged in seedling businesses.
“The presence of these young women running seedling businesses is inspiring, and we will ensure that our officers come to learn some technical skills from them”.