Agricol Chair in Agronomy needs researchers

Dr. Kotzé will also be working closely with the agricultural industry to help identify and plan relevant research projects and to ensure funding for the studies conducted by SU researchers. These could, among other things, include further research into the viability of various crop rotation systems, the minimum standards required for the cultivation of specific crops, seed selections that are suitable for specific regions or optimum farming practices for emerging crops such as soya beans. He will also assist in lecturing, and help obtain bursaries to support students in agronomy.

Career opportunities

Antonie Jacobs, managing director of Agricol, says the company is looking forward to forging a close relationship with the SU through the activities of the chair. He believes that it will help expand research and development in the seed industry, and increase product knowledge and opportunities for further training to ensure a competitive edge to the industry.

"There are ample career opportunities in the seed industry for qualified experts who are able to provide producers' need for cultivars and varieties that are disease resistant, high yielding or are adapted to specific regional areas," Jacobs explains. "Because genetic progress is the backbone of a growing agricultural industry it is therefore important that the work of students and researchers in this area should receive extensive support."

Dr. Kotzé worked for the former Department of Agriculture in Potchefstroom and at Elsenburg before joining Agricol in 1994 as director of research and development, and was appointed as the company's managing director in 2011.

He completed his doctoral studies at Stellenbosch University on the crop rotation possibilities of using the pasturage medics together with corn. He also obtained a MBA at the Stellenbosch University Business School, served on the board of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR) for many years and continues his involvement as member of the SANSOR pasturage committee.

Giving back

"After being in the industry for years, I am looking forward to giving back by helping develop an all-important younger, dynamic generation," says Dr. Kotzé, who will remain involved with Agricol by, among other things, mentoring their emerging agriculturists. "I hope to be a mentor for students, and to keep my ear close to the ground to establish which research the pasturage and fresh produce industries need in order to progress."

"We are excited about the impetus that this chair can offer our field of study and the possibilities for further research whereby we can keep addressing industry related problems," says Dr. P.J. Pieterse, chairperson of the SU Department of Agronomy. "The serious shortage of agronomists will undoubtedly grow with increased worldwide demand for food, fuel and fibre, coupled with the challenges of climate change."