In a significant boost for forestry education and small business development, Sappi is partnering with Agricolleges to launch four online forestry skills courses designed to enhance technical capacity across the forestry value chain.

The initiative, 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, the 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 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. The training is designed to transform participants into self-reliant, sustainable timber businesses. 

"This initiative is part of our knowledge-sharing programme", says 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 FSA says, "The 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. It will assist in their comprehension and internalisation of the activities and 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 provide continuous support and guidance in several official languages to enhance participant comfort and ensure an effective learning experience. "

Upon completing the 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; however, participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Four Courses are 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

Managing the environment in forestry (2 weeks): R1,800