Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) has secured a valuable new partnership with Taaibosch Piggery, a leading agricultural enterprise based near Fochville in Gauteng. According to Dr Karabo Molomo, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture – Animal Production in the Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences at MUT, the collaboration will create “exciting” work-integrated learning (WIL) and internship opportunities for MUT students, starting in 2026. Taaibosch Piggery, established by CP and Gerda Kriek in 2013, operates one of South Africa’s most advanced pig farms. With 2,400 sows, an on-site feed mill, an artificial insemination gene transfer centre, and a complete production cycle, the farm is a hub of innovation and sustainability in animal production.
Dr Molomo “finalise the agreement” with Kriek. Through this partnership, MUT students will no longer apply through open public submissions, but will instead be directly prioritised for placements. This ensures alignment with the farm’s skills needs while providing MUT students with hands-on, industry-relevant training.
This partnership represents a breakthrough for MUT students in agriculture. By working with industry leaders like Taaibosch Piggery, we are ensuring that our graduates gain not only theoretical knowledge, but also the practical expertise and professional readiness to thrive in the agricultural sector.” This collaboration is yet another step in MUT’s commitment to equipping students with the skills, confidence and industry networks needed to succeed in the world of work.
While doing WIL at the farm, the MUT students will gain practical exposure across all stages of pig production; specialised training courses offered through veterinary and farm workshops. Also, they will be part of a graduate research project guided by experienced farm managers. Dr Molomo also said his students would be mentored by an industrial psychologist for personal and professional growth. “The students will also earn recognition awards, including the Top Student Award,” said Dr Molomo.
According to a very “excited” Dr Molomo. The graduates of the programme will leave with industry-ready skills, a strong reference, and a professional track record that will set them apart in the agricultural sector.
“This is a programme we are deeply passionate about,” says CP Kriek. “The future of agriculture in South Africa depends on the young professionals we train today, and we are proud to partner with MUT to make this possible,” CP Kriek said.