Celebrating growth: Bursary to breakthrough

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Potatoes SA celebrates the remarkable journey of Sifiso Mhlanga, a former bursary recipient who has now joined the organisation. His story is a powerful reflection of what the Potatoes SA bursary programme aims to achieve: empowering young professionals who grow into valuable contributors to the potato industry.

Sifiso was born and raised in Nhlazatshe, Mpumalanga, in a close-knit family that influenced his passion for people, community upliftment, and agriculture. He has always enjoyed teaching, mentoring, and guiding producers. His hobbies, reading, learning and participating in community programmes, have shaped him into someone dedicated to growth and service.

Academic excellence

Sifiso’s academic journey led him to the University of Limpopo, where he pursued an MSc in Plant Protection.

He was awarded the Potatoes SA bursary in 2019, which allowed him to focus his research on reducing nematode infestations in potatoes through methods such as crop rotation, chemical application, and comparative field trials. He describes the bursary as a blessing, enabling him to study without financial worries while gaining valuable theoretical and practical skills in crop production, plant protection, and extension work.

Although he did not return in 2020 to complete the MSc due to personal reasons, Sifiso remains committed and plans to finish his master’s degree in the near future. The knowledge and experience he gained during his studies continue to strengthen his understanding of crop production and producer support. His time in the programme also honed his ability to communicate agricultural concepts clearly, especially when working with producers in rural communities.

After his studies, Sifiso worked in various agricultural support roles, including as a facilitator and mentor. He later spent a season at the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) in Burgersfort as a temporary inspector, gaining valuable experience in inspection processes and production standards. These experiences deepened his technical expertise, strengthened his communication skills, and reinforced his passion for producer-focussed work.

Joining the Potatoes SA team

Sifiso recently began a new chapter as a junior agronomist at Potatoes SA. In this role, he supports project coordination, assists producers during field visits and training, collects field data, prepares reports, and contributes to research activities. He also engages with stakeholders to ensure that project tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. He describes receiving the job offer as a moment filled with gratitude and excitement, an affirmation that his hard work and perseverance have been worthwhile.

Having already been active in mentoring young producers and encouraging youth to pursue agriculture, Sifiso sees his new role as an opportunity to give back even more. He hopes to contribute to improved production practices, promote efficient use of natural resources and strengthen producer support across South Africa’s potato-growing communities. Looking ahead, he aspires to grow within the organisation and eventually serve as a senior project officer.

Sifiso believes the bursary is a life-changing programme that provides real support to students.

He encourages aspiring applicants to take the opportunity seriously, stay focussed, and remain humble and teachable throughout their studies. “Even when the journey feels tough, remember your goals and keep going,” he says. “This support can open many doors. Use it wisely and let your success inspire others.”

Sifiso’s journey from bursary recipient to junior agronomist stands as an inspiring example of how dedication, opportunity, and mentorship can shape a bright future. Potatoes SA is proud to welcome him into the organisation and looks forward to the impact he will make in the potato industry. – Rotondwa Raligidima, procurement and bursary administrator, Potatoes SA

For more information about the bursary programme, send an email to Rendani Murovhi at rendani@potatoes.co.za, or visit www.potatoes.co.za to apply online.