Africa’s First High-Tech Agricultural Research and Training Facility

The University of Pretoria has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative that is set to revolutionize agricultural research and education in Africa. Known as FARM@UP, this integrated, high-tech agricultural research and training facility is the first of its kind on the continent. Spanning an impressive 570 hectares, FARM@UP is designed to advance multidisciplinary agricultural research, focusing on sustainability and climate-smart practices.

FARM@UP is more than just a research facility; it's a comprehensive hub that blends cutting-edge technology with hands-on training. According to Professor Barend Erasmus, Dean of the Faculty of Natural Agricultural Sciences at the University of Pretoria,

“FARM@UP will serve as a living laboratory, combining cutting-edge technology with hands-on learning to address the unique challenges faced by South Africa and the broader African region.”

This approach aims to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical skills development, preparing scholars, students, and industry professionals for the future of agriculture.

One of the key aspects of FARM@UP is its focus on sustainability. The facility is designed to be self-sustaining, leveraging the university's deep disciplinary expertise to anchor its two critical pillars: theoretical education and practical skills development. Erasmus emphasized the significance of this dual approach, noting,

“Our goal is to drive climate-smart agricultural research and offer comprehensive training and skills development, paving the way for a new era in African agriculture.”

FARM@UP is also a shining example of academia-industry collaboration. The project relies heavily on partnerships with industry leaders, who will contribute to both the research agenda and the practical implementation of innovative solutions. Erasmus highlighted this collaboration, stating,

“This initiative represents a strategic partnership between academia and industry, emphasizing collaboration and long-term impact. By integrating industry insights with academic research, FARM@UP is set to address pressing agricultural needs and enhance transdisciplinary research efforts.”

Several industry leaders have already committed to partnering with the University of Pretoria in the development of FARM@UP. Companies such as Agri-Enviro Solutions, Automill, Bitek Industries, Bühler Southern Africa, Kemin, Ronin, and Waikato South Africa are on board, with formal agreements expected to be finalized soon.

In addition to serving as a research hub, FARM@UP will also act as a key point of collaboration with various African and global partners. The facility is poised to provide state-of-the-art research and teaching resources, making it a vital center for training researchers and stakeholders from across southern Africa and beyond.

The launch of FARM@UP shows the University of Pretoria’s commitment to advancing agricultural science and fostering innovation across the African continent. Through this pioneering initiative, UP aims to shape the future of agriculture, combining academic excellence with industry-driven solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow.