Apply for the Mpumalanga Agriculture Graduate Placement Programme 2025–2027. Over 140 posts available for Agricultural graduates across the province. Includes stipend, practical training and full placement details.
If you’re an unemployed Agricultural graduate in South Africa — especially in Mpumalanga — this opportunity might be the turning point you’ve been hoping for.
The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) has opened applications for 140 Agricultural Graduate Placement Programme posts, running from 2025 to 2027. This is one of the province’s biggest investments in developing skilled young professionals across agriculture, food production, livestock management, horticulture, environmental sustainability and rural development.
This programme is specifically designed for graduates who want hands-on experience, real workplace exposure and a meaningful start to a long-term agricultural career.
Quick Overview
Opportunity: Mpumalanga Agriculture Graduate Placement Programme 2025–2027
Department: DARDLEA — Agriculture, Rural Development, Land & Environmental Affairs
Duration: 24 months
Posts: 140 Graduate Placements
Stipend: R94 326 per annum
Closing Date: 12 December 2025 at 16:00
Who Can Apply: Unemployed South African Agricultural graduates
Qualifications: National Diploma in Crop, Animal, Mixed Farming, Poultry, Livestock or Horticulture
Application Method: Submit Z83 + CV to the relevant district
Work Locations: Multiple municipalities across Mpumalanga
About the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture
The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) is central to the province’s food security, agricultural transformation, and rural development strategies. Its work covers:
- Crop production
- Animal and livestock development
- Poultry and horticulture
- Rural socio-economic upliftment
- Agricultural extension services
- Environmental sustainability
- Support for emerging and small-scale farmers
By offering this Graduate Placement Programme, the department aims to build a strong pipeline of young agricultural professionals ready to contribute to South Africa’s farming economy.
This initiative also supports broader provincial priorities such as expanding food systems, boosting rural job creation, strengthening agricultural value chains and improving food security.
What This Internship Offers
This two-year programme provides a structured entry point into the agricultural profession.
Practical Workplace Exposure
Graduates are placed within agricultural directorates across municipalities, engaging directly with farming operations.
Real Farming Experience
You will gain practical skills in:
- Crop production
- Livestock farming
- Poultry operations
- Horticulture
- Mixed farming systems
Mentorship and Professional Support
You will work alongside skilled extension officers, agricultural technicians and scientists.
Monthly Stipend
The programme offers R94 326 per annum to support you throughout the 24-month contract.
Improved Employability
Past graduates have secured jobs in:
- Government departments
- Research institutions
- Agricultural companies
- NGOs
- Agribusinesses
- Private farms
The experience gained here builds a strong foundation for permanent employment.
Breakdown of Available Posts and Qualifications
Below is the full breakdown of the 140 posts across Mpumalanga municipalities, including the required qualifications.
Mkhondo Municipality
- Crop & Livestock Production (X2) – National Diploma Animal/Crop Production
- Crop Production – National Diploma Crop Production
Msukaligwa Municipality
- Animal Production (X2) – National Diploma Animal Production
- Crop & Animal Production (X2) – National Diploma Crop/Animal Production
Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality
- Crop Production (X7) – National Diploma Crop Production
- Crop & Animal Production – National Diploma Crop/Animal Production
Dr Pixley ka Isaka Seme Municipality
- Crop & Animal Production (X2) – National Diploma Crop/Animal Production
- Animal Production – National Diploma Animal Production
Govan Mbeki Municipality
- Mixed (Crop/Animal) Production
- Poultry Production (X3) – National Diploma Animal Production
- Vegetable Production (X3) – National Diploma Crop Production
Lekwa Municipality
- Poultry Production (X10) – National Diploma Animal Production
Bushbuckridge South Municipality
- Crop Production (X10)
- Crop & Animal Production (X4)
- Crop & Animal Production
- Animal Production (X4)
- Crop Production (X12)
Thaba Chweu Municipality
- Animal Production (X4)
Mbombela Municipality
- Crop Production (X9)
Umjindi Municipality
- Mixed Production (X2)
- Horticulture (X2)
- Crop Production (X4)
- Animal & Crop Production (X4)
Nkomazi Municipality
- Crop Production (X11)
- Animal Production (X3)
Emalahleni Municipality
- Animal & Crop Production (X2)
- Poultry & Vegetable Production (X2)
- Vegetable Production (X2)
Thembisile Hani Municipality
- Crop Production (X4)
- Poultry & Crop Production (X2)
Steve Tshwete Municipality
- Crop & Livestock Production (X2)
- Horticulture/Crop Production (X2)
Emakhazeni Municipality
- Crop & Livestock Production (X2)
- Livestock Production (X2)
Dr J.S Moroka Municipality
- Vegetables & Grains Production (X4)
- Layers & Vegetables (X4)
Victor Khanye Municipality
- Crop Production (X5)
- Animal Production (X2)
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed
- Hold a National Diploma in Agriculture (Crop Production, Animal Production, Poultry, Horticulture, Mixed Farming or related fields)
- Be willing to work in rural communities
- Submit a completed Z83 form and CV
- Use the correct reference number
No experience is required — this programme targets new graduates.
How to Apply
Applications must include:
- A fully completed and signed Z83 form
- A comprehensive CV
(Do not attach certificates unless requested.)
If applying for more than one position, submit a separate application for each reference number.
Where to Submit
Ehlanzeni District
Block 4, Aqua Street, Riverside Park, Mbombela
PO Box 266, Mbombela 1200
Email: dardlearecruitment-ehls@mpg.gov.za
Bohlabela District
101 Main Road, Thulamahashe
Private Bag X1321, Thulamahashe 1365
Email: dardlearecruitment-ehln@mpg.gov.za
Gert Sibande District
44 Church Street, Ermelo
Private Bag X9071, Ermelo 2350
Email: dardlearecruitment-gs@mpg.gov.za
Nkangala District
Ebhudlweni Building, Government Complex, KwaMhlanga
Private Bag X4017, KwaMhlanga 1022
Email: dardlearecruitment-nka@mpg.gov.za
Download the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture Vacancies Advert for complete reference numbers and application details.
Conclusion
The Mpumalanga Agriculture Graduate Placement Programme 2025–2027 offers one of the strongest pathways into professional agriculture for young graduates. With 140 posts available, a solid 24-month training structure, real field experience and a competitive stipend, this programme gives graduates a powerful start to their careers. If you’re passionate about agriculture and ready to gain hands-on experience that builds long-term opportunities, this is an important opportunity to apply for before the closing date.
