LDARD MEC Leads Back-to-School Agricultural Crusade at Merensky Agricultural Academy

The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Ms Nakedi Kekana, visited Merensky Agricultural Academy in Tzaneen, Mopani District, as part of the Back-to-School Agricultural Crusade. The visit forms part of the Limpopo Provincial Government’s broader back-to-school programme, which officially commenced on 14 January 2026.

The crusade aims to strengthen agricultural education, support learning institutions, and inspire young people to pursue careers in agriculture and agribusiness. Merensky Agricultural Academy remains a key institution in developing future farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and industry professionals in the province.

MEC Kekana was joined by Acting Executive Mayor of Mopani District Municipality, Cllr Malapisane, and the Mayor of Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality, Cllr Mbhalati. The delegation also included representatives from the national Department of Agriculture, with Mr Mashiloane in attendance, as well as the circuit manager, the school principal, and the school management team. The visit reflected a coordinated effort between provincial, district, and local government to support agricultural education.

During her address, the MEC congratulated the school and the circuit for their outstanding academic performance in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations. She expressed pride in the school’s achievements after witnessing Merensky Agricultural Academy receiving awards at the national results announcements.

The school achieved a 100 percent pass rate. A total of 98.98 percent of learners qualified for post-school education and training. Learners attained 359 distinctions, while 88.61 percent qualified for admission to university. These results position Merensky Agricultural Academy as one of the leading agricultural schools in the province.

MEC Kekana extended her appreciation to the educators and the School Governing Body for their commitment and leadership. She acknowledged their role in maintaining high academic standards while balancing theory with practical agricultural training. She also urged municipalities to continue supporting the school and to ensure consistent service delivery that enables effective teaching and learning.

As part of the visit, the MEC officially handed over a 1 200 capacity layer house to the school. The facility forms part of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s support for modern and practical farming education. The layer house will strengthen poultry production training, expose learners to commercial farming systems, and enhance skills development in livestock management.

The handover underscores the province’s commitment to blending education with hands-on agricultural experience. It also reinforces the message that agriculture offers viable career paths, contributes to food security, and plays a critical role in economic growth.

The Back-to-School Agricultural Crusade continues to serve as a platform to motivate learners, recognise excellence, and invest in infrastructure that prepares young people for the future of agriculture in Limpopo and beyond.