The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus welcomed the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Nokuzola Capa, to a high-level youth dialogue aimed at empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders and advancing sustainable food security.

Hosted in partnership with the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the engagement brought together students, young farmers, government leaders, industry stakeholders, researchers and development partners under the theme, "Harnessing the potential of youth to transform agrifood systems and attain sustainable food security".

The dialogue provided a platform for young farmers to share their experiences, discuss challenges affecting the agricultural sector and explore innovative solutions that will strengthen youth participation, entrepreneurship and sustainability in South Africa's agrifood systems.

Addressing participants, Deputy Minister Capa encouraged young people to become active contributors to the development of the country.

"Our country does not need spectators. It needs builders," she said.

She emphasised that young people have a critical role to play in transforming agriculture through innovation, entrepreneurship and the adoption of new technologies that will ensure long-term food security and economic growth.

The programme focused on several strategic priorities, including:

• Deepening the role of academic and research institutions as catalysts for promoting youth participation in agrifood systems.
• Amplifying the voice and meaningful participation of young people in shaping the future of agrifood systems.
• Advancing targeted youth empowerment initiatives to increase the number of young farmers and agripreneurs.
• Promoting the adoption of smart farming methods and innovative technologies to improve agricultural efficiency, productivity and sustainability.

Representing the university, Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, reaffirmed the commitment of the institution to producing graduates who are equipped to respond to national development priorities through research, innovation and community engagement.

As part of the day's programme, Deputy Minister Capa, together with the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, and Dr Molete, led the ceremonial planting of three trees, symbolically launching an environmental initiative that will see a total of 15 trees planted on campus. The initiative underscored the shared commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

The event also showcased the vibrancy of the agricultural sector in the province through an exhibition featuring 20 exhibitors from across North West. The exhibitors displayed a diverse range of agricultural products, technologies, innovations and business opportunities, highlighting the growing contribution of the sector to economic development, food security and job creation.

Throughout the engagement, students were encouraged to view agriculture as a dynamic sector offering opportunities beyond traditional farming. Discussions highlighted careers in agricultural science, agribusiness, technology, research and innovation, while demonstrating how collaboration between the government, academia and industry can unlock new opportunities for young people.

The dialogue reaffirmed the importance of investing in young people as drivers of agricultural transformation. By creating spaces where young people can engage directly with policymakers and industry leaders, the NWU continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for knowledge generation, innovation and sustainable development.

The successful engagement demonstrated that through partnerships and shared commitment, South Africa can cultivate a new generation of agricultural innovators and entrepreneurs capable of building resilient agrifood systems and securing a sustainable future for all.

As part of the day's programme, 15 trees were planted on campus, symbolically launching an environmental initiative. From left are Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, Madoda Sambatha, North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, and Nokuzola Capa, Deputy Minister of Agriculture.

One of the exhibitors at the event.