The Western Cape Department of Agriculture recently hosted its annual open days at its Elsenburg research farm outside Stellenbosch and entertained and gave exposure to more than 1 300 children.

"The aim with these open days is to provide children with an opportunity to see farm animals and learn what is involved in farming. Hopefully these visits will create an awareness of the important part these animals, and consequently agriculture, plays in the lives of all our communities", says William Gertenbach, head of the Department's Institute for Animal Production, with overall responsibility for the event.

"It is really very important for the future of agriculture that young people know where their food comes from. As a Department we have to create awareness for and enthuse young people to become involved with agriculture and even to consider it is a career option". The Department each year invites schools (pre primary and primary) to visit Elsenburg during the open days programme which runs over three days in March.

The Department has also embarked on the development of a Human Capital Development Strategy whereby it aims to address the various scarce skills within the sector and to change the image of agriculture through transformation and training.

Issued by:
Charlene Nieuwoudt
Communications Manager
Western Cape Department of Agriculture
Tel: 021 808 5008
Fax: 021 808 5000

Media Queries:
Liesl Muller
Tel: 021 808 5196