Sappi and Agricolleges join forces to launch online forestry skills courses

In a major boost for forestry education and small business development, Sappi has partnered with Agricolleges to launch four new online forestry skills courses aimed at improving technical capacity across the forestry value chain. This pioneering initiative, firmly supported by Forestry South Africa (FSA), seeks to make quality, affordable training accessible to more people – especially small-scale growers and contractors.

Hosted on Agricolleges’ e-learning platform, these courses are designed to uplift technical forestry skills for the broader industry using the strong training foundation established by Sappi Khulisa’s learning programme.

The new partnership with Agricolleges reflects Sappi’s commitment to creating shared value across its forestry value chain and empowering small-scale growers, contractors, forestry value-chain suppliers, and community land reform beneficiaries. These training is designed to transform participants into self-reliant, sustainable timber businesses.

“This initiative is part of our knowledge-sharing programme,” said Duane Roothman, Sappi Forests Vice President. “By offering accessible and practical training, we aim to make small growers’ businesses more viable and sustainable. Participants can also work towards full integration into the forestry value chain, including obtaining PEFC certification, which is important for our customers and consumers.”

Francois Oberholzer of Forestry South Africa adds, “This collaboration aligns perfectly with the principles of the Amended Forest Sector Code, and seeks to uplift and empower small businesses, and enable smoother access for new forestry value chain participants. This will not only assist in their comprehension and internalisation of the activities but will also increase their operational capacity . It’s a much-needed initiative for the sector and one we wholeheartedly support.”

Wynand Espach of Agricolleges highlighted the value of the platform: “By making training accessible through online and mobile platforms, we’re overcoming the challenge of geographical distance from training facilities. Our online facilitators offer continuous support and guidance, with the ability to assist in several official languages to enhance participant comfort and ensure a smooth, effective learning experience. ”

Upon completion of all four courses, learners will be eligible for a one-week practical training session at the Sappi Forestry Skills Centre near Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal – at no additional course cost. Shared accommodation and meals will be provided, though participants must arrange their own travel and PPE.

Shared accommodation and meals will be provided, though participants must arrange their own travel and PPE.

Four Courses Now Available:

1. Introduction to the Forestry Value Chain (3 weeks) – R2,700
2. Forestry Health and Safety (2 weeks) – R1,800
3. Forestry Certification Basics (FSC and PEFC) (2 weeks) – R1,800
4. Managing the Environment in Forestry (2 weeks) – R1,800

Participants must achieve a 65% pass rate on assignments and module tests.

Looking ahead, Sappi and Agricolleges will expand the course offerings into a full suite of courses covering silviculture, harvesting, and forestry business management, with future plans to:

• Translate courses into isiZulu, and
• Develop an accredited NQF Level 5 forestry qualification.

For more information, visit Agricolleges Forestry Courses.