We invite you to enroll for the three year Diploma or two year Higher Certificate in Agriculture at the Grootfontein College of Agriculture and prepare yourself to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Kom verwerf jou driejaar Diploma of tweejaar Hoër Sertifikaat in Landbou aan die Landboukollege Grootfontein en berei jou so suksesvol voor vir die uitdagings en geleenthede wat daar in die 21ste eeu op jou wag.

Grootfontein offers you:

Professional training by specialists

Practical training of outstanding quality

Excellent infrastructure

Support by the research division

Short courses and lectures by breeding societies

Low study costs

Calm and peaceful campus

Good sport and recreational facilities

In 1903 the British War Department purchased certain portions of the farms Grootfontein, Leeufontein, Bultfontein and De Poort - with a combined area of 10 847 hectare - for the purpose of a military camp and training centre for British troops. These portions combined, known as Grootfontein, adjoin the commonage of Middelburg, Eastern Cape Province.

When the Union of South Africa was established in 1910 the farm Grootfontein, together with some military buildings and other equipment, was purchased from the British Government for an amount of R98 000 and converted into an agricultural school and experimental station. The Grootfontein School of Agriculture was officially opened in 1911 with an enrolment of 42 students. Mr RW Thornton was the first principal of the school, assisted by fifteen professional and technical officers and an administrative personnel of six

In the course of time the number of students grew, the courses and syllabuses were progressively extended and adjusted to the requirements of the time, and the educational facilities and number of staff accordingly increased so that by 1939 Grootfontein could be given College status and become known as the Grootfontein College of Agriculture.

During the first week of October in 2001 the College was evaluated by the HEQC (Higher Education Quality Committee). Both the Higher Certificate in Agriculture, the Diploma in Agriculture and the Institute as a whole were accredited by the HEQC. This means that students who attain their certificates and diplomas, may further their qualifications (eg B.Tech), including degrees at certain Technikons.

The Grootfontein College of Agriculture is well known for its contribution in the small stock farming industry over the years. The so well established character and tradition of high standards of training and excellence is maintained and diplomats of the College are in high demand for positions in the small stock industry. The training is career orientated and students are suitably qualified and equipped to pursue a career in, not only small stock farming, but a broad spectrum of occupations in related fields.

Non sibi sed Patriae: dit is ons edel leus;