Our story - Glen College of Agriculture: A Century of Excellence

Cultivating the Future of Agriculture

🌿 Est. 1919 · Free State, South Africa. One of the oldest and most respected agricultural training institutions in South Africa.

100+ Years of Excellence · 3 500+ Graduates

Vision

To become a centre of excellence in providing relevant agricultural and agro-value chain education, training, research and development.

Mission

To deliver sustainable agricultural education and training through competitive human capital, infrastructure, and innovative, dynamic, and practical training in collaboration with stakeholders.

A Century of Agricultural Training

Glen College of Agriculture is one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected agricultural training institutions, with a legacy spanning more than a century. Established in 1919, the college was founded to equip young farmers with both the scientific knowledge and define us today.

Over the decades, Glen College of Agriculture has played a meaningful role in advancing agricultural research, education, and innovation in South Africa. From early contributions in crop trials, animal production, and dairy processing, to its current programmes aligned with modern agricultural practices, the College has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the sector.

Today, Glen College of Agriculture offers a comprehensive Diploma in Agriculture, with two streams of Animal Production and Crop Production. A key pillar of the programme is Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), which provides students with real-world industry experience and exposure to leading agricultural enterprises.

Beyond academics, the college advances the development of well-rounded graduates through sport, culture, and leadership opportunities. Partnerships with industry stakeholders further enrich the student experience through farm visits, agricultural exhibitions such as
NAMPO, and collaborative learning initiatives.

Glen College of Agriculture is also committed to transformation, access, and inclusion. Through initiatives such as the Recognition of Prior Learning Centre, developed in partnership with AgriSETA, the institution continues to open pathways for farmers, farm workers, and communities to access formal agricultural training.

With over 100 years of impact and more than 3,000 graduates, Glen College of Agriculture remains dedicated to building agricultural capacity, supporting rural development, and contributing to food security in South Africa. Rooted in tradition, driven by practical excellence and focused on the future of agriculture.

Milestones

Our Timeline

1912

Farm land purchased for establishment of the College

1919

College officially opened; first students enrolled

1920

Entomology, Botany and Domestic Science introduced

1922

Annual sheep and wool short courses began

1929

First woman enrolled — Ms E. Boshoff

1932

Diploma reverted to two-year qualification

1993

First black student enrolled — Mr Joseph Moloi

2001

Diploma expanded to three-year qualification

2019

Centenary celebration — 100 years of excellence

2026

Continued commitment to agricultural innovation

Shape Your Future in Agriculture

Join us at The Glen College of Agriculture, where tradition meets innovation. Explore our diverse programs designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for a thriving career in agriculture. Apply today and become part of a legacy that has been cultivating the future of agriculture since 1919.