DARDEA Hands Over 30 Laptops to Nampo Combined Agricultural School to Strengthen Agricultural Education

The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs continues to invest in youth development and agricultural education through initiatives aimed at empowering future farmers and agricultural professionals. As part of these efforts, the department yesterday handed over 30 laptops to Nampo Combined Agricultural School in Nala Local Municipality. The donation forms part of broader programmes designed to unlock opportunities for young and upcoming farmers through improved access to technology and educational resources. The initiative reflects the growing importance of digital learning tools within modern agricultural education systems. It also highlights the role technology plays in preparing learners for the demands of a changing agricultural sector.

Welcoming delegates from the department during the handover ceremony, Principal Mr M.S. Mofokeng expressed appreciation for the donation and acknowledged the significance of the support provided to the school. He stated that the institution felt fortunate to have been selected as a beneficiary of the ICT equipment programme. According to the principal, the laptops will contribute positively to teaching and learning activities, especially in subjects linked to agricultural science and technical development. The donation is expected to improve learner access to research materials, digital learning platforms, and practical educational resources. It also creates opportunities for students to strengthen computer literacy skills that are increasingly important within both education and agriculture.

Speaking at the event, Mr Tshepo Mabilo emphasized the importance of integrating technology into agricultural education. He explained that the ICT equipment would assist the school in advancing educational outcomes while preparing learners for careers within the agricultural sector. Mr Mabilo further highlighted the critical role played by agricultural schools in equipping young people with technical farming skills and agricultural science knowledge. These skills are considered essential for socio economic development, particularly in communities where agriculture remains a major economic driver. By improving access to technology, the department aims to strengthen the capacity of learners to participate meaningfully in modern agricultural systems.

Mr Mabilo also reflected on discussions that took place during the MEC’s Rockman stakeholder engagement series, where communities identified the urgent need for ICT support in agricultural schools. One of the key concerns raised during those engagements was the lack of technological resources available to learners in rural and farming communities. He noted that the MEC committed to providing laptops to support agricultural education, although delays were experienced during the procurement process. Budget limitations and administrative challenges affected the rollout because the acquisition of educational laptops does not fall directly within DARDEA’s primary mandate. Despite these obstacles, the department proceeded with the initiative in response to the needs raised by stakeholders and local communities.

The handover ceremony attracted several important stakeholders, including the Mayor of Nala Local Municipality, Councillor Nozililo Mashiya, School Governing Body member Ntate Machatola, educators, learners, and community representatives. Their presence reflected strong support for educational development and youth empowerment within the municipality. The event also reinforced the importance of partnerships between government departments, schools, and local communities in advancing agricultural education. Stakeholders acknowledged that access to technology is becoming increasingly important for learners who wish to pursue careers in agriculture, agribusiness, and environmental management. The laptops are expected to improve learning conditions while creating a more supportive educational environment for students.

The donation to Nampo Combined Agricultural School represents more than just the delivery of computers. It reflects a broader commitment to investing in young people and strengthening agricultural development through education and innovation. By equipping learners with digital tools, the department is helping bridge the technological gap often experienced by rural schools. The initiative also supports efforts to prepare a new generation of skilled agricultural professionals capable of contributing to food security and economic growth. As technology continues to shape the future of farming, programmes such as this are expected to play a vital role in empowering young people and strengthening the agricultural sector in South Africa.