About AgriSPACE Campus

AgriSPACE (Agricultural Science and Practical Assessment Centre of Excellence), is situated in the scenic Kargs Post Valley outside Kokstad, KZN. It is an innovative agricultural training and incubation hub jointly managed by Scientific Roots (Pty) Ltd and AgriBioTech NPC. The campus was established to bridge the gap between theory and practice in agriculture by offering practical training, mentorship, and enterprise incubation. It is a space where aspiring agripreneurs, small-scale farmers, and students can access resources, guidance, and opportunities to grow into successful agricultural entrepreneurs. With a strong focus on the use of indigenous biological resources for innovative agri-biotech product development, as well as the design and construction of universally accessible, bespoke, energy-efficient infrastructure and equipment for small-scale farming and manufacturing, AgriSPACE is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of agriprenuers who will shape the future of rural agripreneurship in South Africa.

Practical Excursion with Ingwe TVET College

On a bright Tuesday morning, the AgriBioTech and Scientific Roots team welcomed students from Ingwe TVET College in Matatiele for a one-day work-based experience at AgriSPACE Campus. The college had requested this visit to give their students meaningful exposure to agriculture in action. The aim was to provide them with first-hand experience in sustainable practices while deepening their understanding of the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the agricultural sector.

A Warm Welcome

The students were warmly received by Mr. Zama Madikizela, together with Mr. Wanga Kakaza and the dedicated team of AgriBioTech technicians and Agripreneurial Development Practitioners of Scientific Roots. The campus was buzzing with excitement as the students began their journey through a series of interactive learning stations, each showcasing the innovative work being done at AgriSPACE.

The themes of the day highlighted the importance of small-scale farming, universal accessibility for people with disabilities, energy efficiency for rural farmers, creative recycling and upcycling of materials, bespoke purpose-built infrastructure, continuous innovation, new opportunities through contract growing, and the potential of agri-biotech enterprise development.

Learning in Action

The campus offered a wide range of practical demonstrations. At the small-stock section, students were introduced to goats and sheep, feeding and grazing programmes, vaccination schedules, and the handling and inspection of animals. In the poultry unit (housed in refurbished shipping containers) the group explored the broiler houses, feeding systems, stocking densities, equipment use, and the importance of record-keeping.

The hydroponic tunnels sparked particular interest, as students compared the advantages of hydroponics with conventional farming methods. They observed how water circulates in the system, the crops currently under production, and the technology used to keep the system running. The raised planting beds designed for people with disabilities demonstrated how agriculture can be adapted to be accessible and inclusive, while the indigenous plant propagation tunnels offered insights into propagation methods ranging from seeds and seedlings to cuttings, as well as the use of different potting materials.

Inside the intercropping tunnels, students learned about soil preparation, irrigation techniques, and integrated pest and weed control, while in the vermicast production area they saw how earthworms convert organic waste from the campus into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner. The mulch production unit showed them how simple techniques can protect the soil, retain moisture, and improve productivity. In the orchards. They walked among apple, citrus, and quince trees and observed pruning methods that ensure healthy growth and fruiting.

The visit also included a guided tour of the new poultry abattoir, where students were introduced to its design, equipment, capacity, and the slaughtering process. To conclude the excursion, students explored the agro-processing facilities and Innovation Lab. They were shown the processes of distillation, drying, infusion, and extraction, and met the Agriprenuers that are experimenting and utilising these methods to turn raw materials produced and supplied by contract growers into market-ready products.

Lasting Impressions

The excursion was vibrant, interactive, and filled with excitement. The students asked thoughtful questions at every station and were challenged to think differently about agriculture, not only as farming but as a field of innovation and entrepreneurship. For many, the visit was an eye-opening experience that shifted their perspective from seeing agriculture as a career of survival to viewing it as an opportunity to create businesses, generate income, and play a role in food security.

Lecturers from Ingwe TVET College expressed their appreciation for the programme and confirmed their interest in bringing future student groups to AgriSPACE. For both learners and staff, the day was a powerful reminder that agriculture, when driven by creativity and innovation, is not only about producing food but about building sustainable enterprises.

Mr Zama Madikizela

zama@scientificroots.org

0387271515 / 0823290229