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The Potato Industry Development Trust (PIDT) has made significant strides in ensuring that the potato industry is supported by a well-educated and highly skilled workforce. Recognising the importance of research, innovation, and specialised expertise, the PIDT bursary programme was introduced to assist undergraduate and postgraduate students in fields that contribute to the sustainability and growth of the industry.
The programme, which is managed by Potatoes SA in a transparent and equitable manner, is designed to provide financial assistance to students, particularly those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that they have the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations.
The initiative not only addresses the immediate research and workforce needs of the potato industry, but also fosters long-term development by equipping students with knowledge and skills that extend beyond their academic studies. The impact of the programme is evident in the number of students who have successfully transitioned from education to employment, many of whom now play active roles in shaping the future of the industry.
Bursary programme achievements
Since its inception, the PIDT bursary programme has funded a total of 171 students, with 98 undergraduate and 73 postgraduate beneficiaries receiving financial support. The primary objective is to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to take on professional roles that will enhance the productivity and sustainability of the potato industry. Bursaries have not only alleviated financial burdens for students, but also contributed to the development of skilled professionals.
One of the key indicators of the programme’s success is its employment outcomes. The latest report on the status of bursary recipients (Figure 1) reveals that 88 students, just over 50% of those funded, were able to secure employment. Of these, 39 graduates found jobs within the potato industry, fulfilling the programme’s goal of increasing the industry’s workforce. However, it is also notable that 49 graduates have pursued careers in other industries, highlighting the adaptability and broad applicability of the skills acquired through their studies.
While a majority of bursary recipients have successfully transitioned into the workforce, 29 students remain unemployed, pointing to the need for stronger career placement strategies and additional industry support to bridge the employment gap.
Tracking and industry engagement
To ensure continued support beyond academic studies, the PIDT bursary programme employs an annual follow-up system to track students’ progress and employment outcomes. This proactive approach helps with monitoring graduates’ transition into the workforce while also identifying challenges they may face.
As of 2024, 12 students were actively part of the bursary programme. By the end of the year, six had completed their funding cycle and exited the programme.
For the 2025 intake, seven new students were awarded bursaries, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals entering the industry. The new intake includes two postgraduate and five undergraduate students, adding to the diverse range of academic backgrounds being supported.
Despite structured follow-ups, 20 past bursary recipients remain unreachable, making it difficult to track their career progress. Enhancing alumni engagement through networking platforms, mentorship opportunities, and industry events could help maintain stronger connections with graduates.
Partnerships and opportunities
The bursary programme also provides students with valuable networking and learning opportunities by allowing them to attend Potatoes SA events such as the Transformation and Research Symposia. While the Research Symposium is primarily attended by postgraduate students who present their work, both events offer a platform for students to interact with industry experts, learn about the latest advancements, and gain deeper insights into the potato industry.
In addition, the programme supports students in gaining hands-on experience through partnerships with industry leaders. For undergraduate students from colleges who require experimental training in order to graduate, Potatoes SA provides support by sourcing farm placements and offering stipends during this period, ensuring they gain practical, field-based experience.
One such key partner is Potato Seed Production, which has provided several students with the opportunity to gain valuable on-the-ground experience before graduation. Once these students graduate, Potatoes SA will continue to assist by placing them in a workplace environment for an additional 12 months.
A key partner in this process is Prokon SA, a company specialising in quality assurance for the fresh produce industry. Prokon SA has been an excellent partner, as the company often offers permanent positions to hard-working, dedicated students, should the opportunity arise.
Potatoes SA is deeply grateful to these partners, whose contributions have been instrumental in helping shape the careers of young professionals in the potato industry. Potatoes SA is actively seeking more partners to expand opportunities for students.
Future of the bursary programme
The PIDT bursary programme has had a remarkable impact on expanding access to education and developing a skilled workforce for the potato industry. However, as the latest report indicates, there is still work to be done to ensure that all bursary recipients successfully transition to meaningful careers. Strengthening internship placements, mentorship programmes, and alumni engagement will be critical in achieving this goal.
Additionally, the programme could benefit from stronger industry partnerships, where commercial farms and agribusinesses actively participate in student development through on-the-job training and direct employment opportunities. Increasing employer involvement will enhance job prospects for graduates and ensure that the industry benefits from a continuous pipeline of well-trained professionals.
Maintaining contact with graduates through annual follow-ups and alumni networks will further enhance the ability to assess the programme’s long-term impact and provide continued support.
Student testimonials
The impact of the bursary programme is best expressed by the students who benefited from it.
Mamotshabo Rachel Rakgwale, National Diploma in Agricultural Management
“Receiving the Potatoes SA bursary greatly impacted my studies and career. It eased financial burdens, enabling me to complete my National Diploma and BTech in Agricultural Management. The induction and symposium provided valuable industry exposure and connections. As an extension officer with the Department of Agriculture, I appreciate how this bursary shaped my career. I highly recommend it to students who are pursuing agriculture.”
Mandla Sibiya, PhD in Plant Pathology
“Becoming a Potatoes SA bursary beneficiary has given great support to my academic journey. Despite my brief time in the programme, I appreciate how it tracks my progress and ensures ongoing support. Presenting at the symposium and writing a CHIPS article on crop rotation in the Eastern Free State have been valuable experiences. Managing my studies alongside nocturnal epilepsy presents challenges, but the bursary’s support helps me stay on track. A possible key area of improvement is streamlining the bursary disbursement process at the start of the academic year to ease financial pressures on students.”
Olivia Ngwanatheko Mariri, Diploma in Mixed Farming
“The bursary programme was a blessing during a challenging time, especially the financial strain caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. It enabled me to continue my studies as a second-year student and achieve excellent grades, ultimately graduating with distinction. The programme provided financial relief, allowing me to focus on my academic goals, even as I navigated the pressures of a heavy workload during my final year. I am incredibly grateful for the support, which played a key role in my success.”
Relebogile Tlomatsana, Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Management
“Having the opportunity to focus on my studies without the burden of financial constraints was truly a blessing. As I continue to build my career, my goal is to strengthen my growth through academics. I am deeply grateful to the Potatoes SA bursary programme for providing me with this opportunity to expand my knowledge.”
Bhekani Zondo, MSc in Agricultural Economics
“The Potatoes SA bursary had a profound impact on both my life and career. It made my dream of pursuing postgraduate studies in Agricultural Economics a reality by alleviating financial burdens and allowing me to focus on my academic goals. I was able to enhance my skills and employability, which ultimately opened doors to career opportunities. I am deeply grateful for the support, which has not only helped me succeed but also enabled me to support my family.”
Taryn Jean Armfield, PhD in Plant Science
“The bursary has been invaluable in supporting my PhD journey, allowing me to focus on my studies without the stress of financial constraints. It also gave me the opportunity to attend the Potatoes SA Research Symposium, where I gained insights into the potato industry and connected with key industry leaders. The bursary also allowed me to engage directly with farmers, including those where part of my research is being conducted, helping me understand how my work impacts them – the true heart of the industry.” – Rotondwa Raligidima
For more information, email the author at rotondwa@potatoes.co.za.