By Mzwandile Ndlovu and Gosego Phutieagae
The North-West University (NWU) is moving to close the gap between academic study and workplace demands in agriculture.
The Mahikeng Campus hosted the first Animal Science Symposium and Information Day on 5 September 2025, bringing together students, alumni and industry specialists under the theme “Diverse career paths, industry insights and professional growth in the Animal Science field”.
Opening the symposium, the director of the School of Agriculture, Prof Simon Letsoalo, stressed the need for students to view themselves as future professionals shaping the industry.
Amelia du Preez from the South African Society for Animal Science outlined career options for graduates and AFGRI’s Henco Human introduced careers such as ruminant advisors, stressing the role of technical expertise in livestock management.
Quantum Foods executive Amos Selaledi told students that local production struggles to keep pace with demand. “Consumption of meat in South Africa is 60 to 70 kilograms of meat per person per year,” he said. “There is room for improvement and future animal science specialists have a role to play in closing that gap.”
Khomotso Mashiloane of Red Meat Industry Services gave an indication of the scale of the industry: more than 2,8 million cattle and 5 million sheep were slaughtered in 2024. He also detailed the risks facing the red meat value chain, including foot-and-mouth disease. “The information shared today equips students with practical knowledge they can apply in their academic journey and careers,” Khomotso added.
Industry representatives highlighted opportunities across the value chain. Ronald Rapholo from the Milk Producers’ Organisation examined growth in the dairy sector and meatmaster breeder Mario du Preez gave insights from the livestock sector
The Agricultural Research Council’s Masindi Mphaphathi presented on advanced reproductive technologies such as cattle synchronisation and artificial insemination.
Farmer and NWU alumnus Thami Rabasotho said practical exposure was key. “Giving students broad views and practical experiences of the industry helps them make sound decisions if they want to be future farmers.”
The programme ended with exhibitions, where students engaged with industry stakeholders and explored postgraduate study options.
