2026 Poultry Learning Programme: Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most resilient and opportunity-rich sectors, particularly for young people seeking practical skills that can lead to self-employment or small business growth.
In response to the growing demand for sustainable food production and youth empowerment, the 2026 Poultry Learning Programme officially opens on 14 January 2026, offering targeted agricultural training to young people living in the uMngeni Local Municipality.
This programme is ideal for youth who are interested in chicken farming, egg production, or agri-business startups, and who want to gain hands-on skills rather than classroom-only learning. While it is not a job or a paid opportunity, the programme focuses on practical agricultural knowledge, exposure, and certification, which can serve as a foundation for future income-generating activities.
Applications close on 16 January 2026 (extended deadline), and all applications must be hand delivered.
What Is the 2026 Poultry Learning Programme?
The Poultry Learning Programme is a short-term agricultural skills development initiative designed to equip young people with practical knowledge in poultry and plant production. The focus is on real-world farming skills that can be applied immediately in community, household, or small-scale commercial settings.
Rather than focusing on formal employment, the programme aims to:
- Build agricultural capacity at local level
- Support youth entrepreneurship in farming
- Improve food security within communities
- Encourage youth participation in the livestock value chain
This initiative aligns with broader youth development and agricultural sustainability goals.
Who Should Consider Applying?
The programme is specifically targeted at unemployed youth and youth entrepreneurs who live within the uMngeni Local Municipality and have an interest in agriculture.
Ideal Candidates Include Youth Who Are:
- Interested in poultry farming or egg production
- Already involved in small-scale agriculture or livestock activities
- Looking to start an agri-business
- Seeking practical farming skills rather than academic qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants who are already active in agriculture, with at least 60% of selected participants expected to have some involvement in the sector.
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Minimum Entry Requirements (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants must meet all or most of the following requirements to be considered.
Education Requirements
- Minimum education level: Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12
- A certified school report or Matric certificate must be provided
This programme is accessible to youth who may not have tertiary qualifications but are motivated to work in agriculture.
Residency Requirements
- Must be a resident of uMngeni Local Municipality
- Applicants may come from any of the 13 wards
- Proof of address is mandatory
This ensures the programme benefits local youth.
Availability and Employment Status
- Must be able to commit for more than 3 months
- Must be unemployed or a youth entrepreneur
- Must demonstrate a genuine interest in agriculture or livestock production
Inclusivity and Disability Consideration
Youth living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must provide proof of disability where applicable.
The programme aims to be inclusive and representative of the broader community.
Fields of Training Available
Applicants must clearly indicate which field they are applying for.
Available Training Streams
- Poultry Production
- Plant Production
Failure to specify the preferred stream may result in disqualification, so applicants should be clear and deliberate in their choice.
What You Will Gain From the Programme
Although no stipend is provided, the value of the programme lies in the skills, exposure, and learning outcomes.
Participants can expect to gain:
- Practical poultry farming knowledge
- Basic animal health and management skills
- Understanding of egg production processes
- Exposure to agri-business principles
- Skills that can support self-employment or cooperative farming
For many youth, this programme serves as a stepping stone into informal or formal agricultural enterprises.
Required Documents for Application
Incomplete applications may be disqualified, so it is important to submit all required documents.
Application Checklist
You must submit:
- An updated CV
- A covering letter
- A certified copy of your Grade 10–12 report or Matric certificate
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
Important Reminder
You must clearly state whether you are applying for:
- Plant Production, or
- Poultry Production
This should be mentioned in your covering letter.
How and Where to Apply
Applications must be hand delivered. Online or emailed applications will not be accepted.
Submission Location
uMngeni Local Municipality Main Offices
There is a submission box available with the security guards
Ensure your documents are neatly organised and clearly labelled.
Closing Date and Contact Details
Closing Date
16 January 2026 (Extended)
Late applications will not be considered.
Enquiries
- Email: [email protected]
- Admin / Enquiries Contact: 078 509 7573
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Important Notes Applicants Must Understand
Before applying, it is important to be aware of the following conditions:
- No stipend is provided
- Transport and personal costs are your responsibility
- This is not a job opportunity
- The programme focuses on skills development, training, and certification
Applicants who understand these conditions are more likely to benefit fully from the programme.
Why Agricultural Skills Programmes Matter in 2026
With rising unemployment and increasing food production challenges, agriculture remains one of the most accessible sectors for youth entrepreneurship. Poultry farming, in particular, has relatively low entry barriers and consistent market demand.
Skills programmes like this help young people:
- Develop income-generating abilities
- Reduce reliance on formal employment
- Strengthen local food systems
- Build sustainable livelihoods
For motivated youth, agricultural training can become a long-term economic solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a paid programme?
No. There is no stipend, and participants must cover their own transport and personal expenses.
Can I apply if I only have Grade 10?
Yes. Applicants with Grade 10, 11, or 12 may apply.
Do I need farming experience?
Experience is not mandatory, but preference is given to youth already involved in agriculture.
Can youth with disabilities apply?
Yes. Youth living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, with proof required.
Final Thoughts: Building Agricultural Skills at Community Level
The 2026 Poultry Learning Programme offers young people in uMngeni Local Municipality a valuable opportunity to gain practical agricultural skills that can support self-employment and community development.
While it is not a paid opportunity, the programme provides knowledge, exposure, and certification that can open doors in farming and agri-business. For youth serious about agriculture, this initiative represents a meaningful investment in long-term skills and sustainability.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents and submit their applications before 16 January 2026.