Who can apply?

Based on information from past cohorts, the programme is specifically designed for young South Africans who are already active in the agricultural sector, ranging from university students to established entrepreneurs and farmers.

While the application criteria are important, looking at who actually attended in previous years gives a clearer picture of the target participant:

• University Students & Academics: The programme attracts high-level students, from Honours graduates (like Lerato Botha from the University of the Free State) to PhD candidates conducting specialised research (like Lindiwe Mahlangu from Unisa) .

• Working Professionals: Participants include agricultural researchers, advisors, and technicians who are looking to gain international exposure and bring new innovations back to their work .

• Farmers & Entrepreneurs: The NYDA also selects “lifestyle farmers” and established agriculturalists who manage livestock, grains, and crops (e.g., Hlobisile Yende from Heidelberg) .

• Age Range: The NYDA targets youth between 18 and 35 years old .

Participant Profile Summary

Based on the 2023, 2024, and 2025 cohorts, the ideal candidate is a South African national who:

1. Has “Skin in the Game”: You don’t just study agriculture; you do agriculture. Whether through a degree, a research role, or running your own farming operation, you have a verifiable background in the field.

2. Is an Emerging Leader: Candidates are selected for their potential to “plough back” knowledge. The NYDA looks for people who will return to teach, uplift their communities, or improve local food security .

3. Has an Academic Record: You must provide academic transcripts and letters of recommendation, indicating that even if you are a farmer, you have formal training or proven expertise .

What Past Participants Gained (Reinforcing the “Why Apply”)

The “Why Apply” section of your flyer mentions “building your career profile” and “uplifting others.” Past participants confirmed this is accurate:

• Networking: They gained access to a global network of researchers and industry leaders .

• Knowledge Transfer: Participants specifically studied Brazil’s use of ethanol waste and bio-based production to find solutions for South Africa’s energy and waste challenges .

In short: If you are a young South African (18-35) who is already working in or studying agriculture seriously (and can prove it with documents), you are exactly who this programme was designed for.