MUT took part in the Annual Royal Agricultural Show, Africa’s largest mixed agricultural show taking place in Pietermaritzburg royal show grounds from 26 May to 4 June 2023. “We were a part of the Sheep, Goat and Wool Expo at the Royal Show. We were proud recipients of the award, representing the MUT department of Agriculture”, said Dr Helen Mapeka from MUT’s department of agriculture who manned the MUT stand with Mr Sixolisiwe Manciya.
During this 10-day long event, MUT’s Agriculture department is creating awareness and showcasing different programmes that address farmers’ needs in both livestock and crop production. “We are reminding the Agricultural community, including high school learners that agriculture is life. Most Learners and the youth as well as some of the communities do not understand the concept of agriculture and its role in their daily lives. Our intent is therefore to ensure that the relevant information is shared during the exhibition. One of the key information communicated with the high matric learners was that learners should not choose agriculture course as an option but MUT as a first choice for university entry. The farmers were sensitised about the community engagement projects that MUT offers and is implementing in KZN”, said Mapeka. She added that their department is also raising awareness on their new short skills programs such as Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) in sheep and cattle, feed formulation programmes as well as other impactful programmes that will be offered by the university and that the university is demonstrating its vital role in agriculture.
Mapeka and Manciya had the opportunity to meet and share their exhibition information with the MEC of Agriculture KZN, Mr B.M Zuma and his entourage and presented him with a token of appreciation, complements from the marketing and communication division of the MUT.