Mr Wandile Nikelo, a University of Fort Hare (UFH) Faculty of Agriculture and Science alumnus, is putting his academic training into action to change lives in the rural Eastern Cape. As the founder and director of Sakhikamva Agricultural Training and Development Institute, Nikelo is tackling youth unemployment and food insecurity by equipping young people with practical agricultural and entrepreneurial skills.
From UFH Graduate to Rural Changemaker
Nikelo graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Production Science in 2016. Three years later, he obtained a Master’s in Animal Science from UFH’s Livestock and Pasture Science Department. He established Sakhikamva in Drayini Location, near Dutywa, in 2019, after observing the limited opportunities available to rural youth. “The goal was to provide a platform for skills development and economic empowerment, using agriculture as a tool for social change,” he said.
The institute was registered in 2021 and has since trained dozens of young people from underprivileged backgrounds. Its core programmes focus on hands-on agricultural training in piggery, poultry, and vegetable production, giving learners experience in real-world farming operations. “These skills are essential not only for employment but also for building local food systems that strengthen community resilience,” Nikelo said.
Celebrating Achievements During Youth Month Graduation
Recently, the institute hosted a graduation ceremony for students who completed its 12-month Mixed Farming Learnership (NQF Level 2). “The event, held in June as part of Youth Month celebrations, recognized the achievements of learners who gained practical knowledge in farming combined with business skills. The graduation aligned with South Africa’s national theme for Youth Month: “Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation.”
According to Nikelo, the ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Mbhashe Local Municipality, National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Department of Agriculture, and local businesses. Keynote speakers included Mr Anele Potelwa of King Hintsa TVET College, UFH academics Dr Xhamla Nqoro and Dr Sandisiwe Maposa, and guest of honour Mr Lindinxiwa Mahlasela from the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts & Culture.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond Agriculture
Looking beyond agriculture, Nikelo is planning to expand the institute’s offering to home industries, offering training in knitting, sewing, baking, woodworking, and computer literacy. “These programmes aim to broaden income-generating opportunities for youth and women, empowering them to start small businesses and contribute to local economic growth.”
Nikelo, who is currently pursuing his doctoral degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, strongly believes his education at UFH inspired his commitment to community development: “Fort Hare taught me the power of using knowledge to uplift others. I wanted to create something that would give rural youth a chance to build better lives for themselves and their families.”
In addition to training, the institute supports learners in applying to higher education institutions and bursary programmes, helping them unlock opportunities for further studies and long-term career development.
By combining agricultural innovation with skills development, Nikelo is helping to build a more self-reliant and food-secure rural South Africa. His work exemplifies how UFH alumni are using their expertise to make a tangible impact in their communities, offering hope and opportunities where they are needed most.