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Lovedale TVET College CoVE Hub Linking Students with Industry - WILL Week in Climate Smart Agriculture

Lovedale TVET College CoVE Hub in Climate Smart Agriculture embarked on a week-long Work Integrated Learning programme (WIL-Week) for Farming Management and Mechanisation N6 students from October 22–28, 2024. The regional CoVE hub is being established through the European funded Erasmus+ programme. During this week, 57 students visited several agricultural sites to gain practical experience in Climate Smart Agriculture across various farming systems.

Key visits included:

  • Belvedere Safari and Hunting (Ostrich Farm) – Students learned about ostrich care, feeding, breeding and the economic potential of ostrich products.
  • Aquaponics at Martins Farm (Rhodes University) – The focus was on the integrated fish-plant farming system, demonstrating a sustainable and closed-loop approach to agriculture.
  • Amalinda Nursery – Students gained insights into plant propagation, pest management and sustainable practices in nursery operations.
  • University of Fort Hare Dairy Trust – The visit highlighted dairy farm management, milking technology and sustainable dairy practices.
  • Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Training Institute – Students observed the efficiency of the integration of crop and livestock production.

Each visit included hands-on activities, facility tours and Q&A sessions with experts. These experiences enhanced students' understanding of sustainable agriculture, practical farm management, and career opportunities in diverse agricultural sectors.

NB: Click the pictures on the right to expand.

Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week. Above: Students at the CoVE WILL Week.