Innovation

Bokamoso Farmers Academy transforms societies through education. It is committed to the provision of holistic training solutions that encompass the entire spectrum of animal and crop production. It transforms societies through education by offering a series of courses that ranges from livestock management, crop production, farm management, agripreneurship, sustainable agricultural practices, and financial literacy. Bokamoso offers tailor-made, farmer-centered, and pragmatic training that meets the needs of farmers whilst ensuring that it helps them to help themselves by gaining sound knowledge and improving their agribusiness acumen. The programs are designed with the intent to redress the challenges faced by farmers. Bokamoso also seeks to address rural development issues through education and training. The innovation is also about sustainable cities and communities, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Zero hunger and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

Farming the future

Inspiration

"I imagined the 3 issues that we were facing which we still facing in the country which are unemployment, inequalities and poverty. So the light bulb of the formation of this company and the innovation revolves around that and the reason why it came to existence on the basis that it seeks to close those gaps. And also, we discovered that most farmers, especially small scale farmers, has adequate access to necessary information and training since most of them do not have the necessary requirements to be admitted into the institution of higher learning, hence the establishment of this academy to allow all farmers or aspiring farmers to get the necessary training."

Overall impact

Since its establishment, Bokamoso Farmers Academy has provided training to over 500 entities, including commercial and small-scale farmers, government entities, cooperatives, factories, and municipal entities. The academy has upskilled over 20,000 workers, making a tangible impact on the agricultural sector's growth and development.

Business benefit

The academy's innovation has led to revenue generation, employee skill enhancement, and the opening of new markets. By providing practical, hands-on learning experiences, the academy ensures its graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic agricultural industry. The Academy raised revenue of approximately 5 million since its establishment from the money paid by students, donations, and sponsors. The Academy will be opening 2 of its new Branches in Nelspruit Mpumalanga and has hired about 50 employees.

Social and environmental benefit

Bokamoso Farmers Academy contributes to societal and environmental well-being by promoting sustainable farming practices. The academy's graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address complex challenges in agriculture, fostering responsible farming and contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Interview

Godfrey Thwala, Head of School