How Huletts is building skills in rural communities

In rural communities where agriculture is a vital source of income and livelihood, companies recognize the importance of investing in young people to ensure a prosperous future for the industry. Tongaat Hulett, a prominent player in this sector, has been actively involved in skills development and youth development programs for years.

The company's commitment to this cause is evident in its bursary programme at Owen Sithole Agricultural College, which has already benefited over 80 young individuals from sugarcane-growing regions.

This initiative is an integral part of Tongaat Hulett's broader socio-economic development strategy, closely aligned with its sugarcane development programs. By focusing on academic potential and financial need, the bursary programme aims to nurture agricultural expertise and human capital, ultimately creating meaningful career opportunities within the sector.

However, the investment goes beyond merely providing funding for a qualification. Selected students are required to participate in Tongaat Hulett's Work Integrated Learning Programme, which offers them valuable workplace exposure and the chance to apply their academic knowledge in real-life settings.

Beyond supporting education, Tongaat Hulett has also made efforts to develop trade skills and artisan development in rural communities. The company has partnered with AgriSETA to secure funding for graduate placements, allowing graduates to further enhance their skills while contributing to the agricultural sector. Additionally, trade testing and artisan training programmes are offered to equip participants with in-demand skills such as electrical work, fitting and turning, millwright, and instrumentation.

These participants undergo three-year apprenticeship programmes within Tongaat Hulett's operations, receiving both theoretical learning at the KwaShukela Training Centre and on-the-job training, mentorship, and guidance from experienced professionals.

The impact of these skills development programs is evident within Tongaat Hulett's own operations. Graduates who successfully complete their training and demonstrate the necessary practical skills, knowledge, and values have been appointed to various roles within the business, including extension officer positions. These professionals work closely with growers, including small-scale and land reform growers, providing technical support and cane quality expertise.

Their practical training and understanding of the industry contribute to strengthening extension services, improving operational efficiency, and expanding the pool of knowledge across the sugarcane value chain.

Tongaat Hulett's partnerships with sugarcane farmer organizations, landowners, cooperatives, and communal property trusts further support these development efforts, ensuring that access to education and training is extended to rural communities. Ultimately, the investment in young people by Tongaat Hulett is not just about creating individual career opportunities.

It is about building practical skills, strengthening the agricultural workforce, and contributing to the long-term resilience of growers, rural communities, and South Africa's sugarcane industry. By investing in young people today, the company is helping to foster the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.