The symposium was celebrated under the theme, Youth in Agriculture: Promoting Resilience and Sustainability through Scientific Innovation and Digitalised Extension Advisory Services. UMP Agricultural Extension Senior Lecturer, Professor Oluwasango Olorunfemi, described the occasion as an inspiring testament to the vision and determination of young people.
“This symposium is not merely an event; it is a testament that young people, when empowered and supported, can be innovative and take bold strides towards achieving great things and solving real-world challenges,” he said.
Professor Olorunfemi further mentioned that the discussions were both timely and urgent. “Globally, and here at home, the urgency to transform agriculture and rural livelihoods is more pressing than ever. At the heart of this transformation must be our youth, not as beneficiaries, but as drivers of change, creators of innovation, and leaders of tomorrow’s rural economy. Agriculture must not only feed a growing population, but do so in ways that are smart, sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient.”
He also noted that the vision to foster rural development through the science of extension education was already taking shape at the symposium. “The sub-themes we are engaging with today, from climate-smart production systems to agripreneurship for poverty alleviation, show a forward-thinking mindset. Youth are not the future of agriculture, they are its present.”
The symposium brought together students, academics, and industry leaders.
UMP Dean of Students, Dr Paul Maminza, commended the UMP Agricultural Extension Student Society for showing how student leadership can address critical issues such as food sustainability, which is essential for national well-being.
He expressed confidence that the symposium would yield tangible outcomes, describing it as a platform for deliberate and focused engagement. “We expect this to be the start of even greater things for our students. The conversations and collaborations taking place here today can contribute to solutions that impact not just the university, but communities across the country,” said Dr Maminza.
Reimagining Extension Through Technology
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Director of Agricultural Producer Support and Development at the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), Dr Maanda Dagada, spoke about the urgent need to reimagine agricultural extension services in South Africa.
“In Limpopo, for example, we have 20 000 smallholder farmers but only 142 extension officers, a ratio of 1 to 250. This is simply not sustainable. We must find smarter, faster, and more effective ways to support our farmers, and technology is our greatest ally in this mission,” he said.
Dr Dagada emphasised the role of young people in transforming agriculture. “Young people must not see themselves as spectators in this industry. They must lead from the front. You are the generation that can bring digital solutions to rural farming communities, bridge the information gap, and create resilient systems that work for both people and the planet.”
He outlined the department’s efforts to integrate technology into extension services, noting that mobile apps, social media platforms, and real-time data collection are reshaping the way farmers receive support.
“We can now give farmers instant weather alerts, market prices, and pest control advice without the need for an extension officer to physically visit their farm. Imagine what that means for a farmer in a remote village – it is life-changing.”
The event was a platform for focussed, meaningful and deliberate engagement from all role players.
Highlighting innovation in the sector, Dr Dagada discussed the Smart Box, a device designed to improve efficiency in agricultural production. “The Smart Box is not just a piece of equipment; it’s a gateway to higher yields, better resource management, and greater sustainability. But we need to make it more affordable and accessible to farmers. This is where young innovators can play a role in scaling such technology and adapting it to local needs.”
He also underscored the importance of agro-processing in boosting the rural economy. “If we want to tackle unemployment and poverty, we must look beyond primary production. Agro-processing creates jobs, adds value, and keeps wealth within our communities. This is why I am challenging you, the students and young professionals here, to think about how you can turn raw agricultural products into market-ready goods.”
Dr Dagada reminded participants that agriculture is not just about food, but also about dignity and sovereignty. “Food security is political. When you control your food production, you control your destiny. This is why we must invest in young people who can build a self-reliant, innovative, and climate-resilient agricultural system.”
He concluded by encouraging students to embrace agriculture as a career and a calling. “Love agriculture, respect the land, and innovate fearlessly. The future belongs to those who can balance productivity with sustainability. You have the tools, you have the technology, and you have the passion – now go out there and change the game.”
The symposium concluded with a prize-giving ceremony recognising outstanding student research:
- Top Undergraduate Presenter: Siyabonga Mthethwa
- Top Honours Presenter: Ms Nobantu Bhiya
- Top PhD Presenter: Ms Thubelihle Mathonsi
- Overall Best Paper: Mr Ally Sithole (PhD)
The event celebrated a century of formal extension services while charting a path for the next generation of agricultural innovators
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creatives. Copyright @UMP