Stellenbosch University:
Developing African Greenhouse Expertise
“Greenhouse farming in Africa is on the rise, but growers need to navigate challenges such as energy consumption, water management, labor, and input costs,” she explains. “However, there is enormous potential for those who are willing to adopt innovative solutions.”
Climate-smart agriculture and protected cropping provide sustainable ways to overcome these challenges. According to Dr. Kempen, these methods ensure more consistent, high-quality yields even under adverse climatic conditions. “The demand for fresh, locally produced food continues to grow, particularly in urban areas. At the same time, there is a clear need for practical training that equips growers, technical staff, and students to capitalize on these opportunities sustainably.”
Practical training to grow sustainably
Stellenbosch University’s short courses focus on developing hands-on skills in greenhouse and tunnel farming, covering every stage from seed to harvest. They take place at the HortiDemoCentre in Stellenbosch, but will be available online for those who cannot attend in person.
“Our courses are unique because participants gain direct experience in active production units,” Dr. Kempen emphasizes. “Learning by doing is a key component, and we collaborate closely with industry experts who share their practical knowledge in an independent and applicable manner.”
Students from various universities are also actively involved at the HortiDemoCentre (HDC), working on trials, collecting and analyzing data, and developing the essential skills required to enter the industry as young professionals.
What the courses are all about
“We emphasize the importance of beginning with high-quality genetics and healthy seedlings, as well as managing their transition into the greenhouse effectively.”
Dr Kempen elaborates that they also put a strong emphasis on daily system monitoring: “Even minor deviations in pH, EC, or climate can significantly impact yield and quality. We teach participants how to interpret data and make timely corrections.”
The next focus area is data-driven decision-making. “All our trials and production activities link observations to concrete data, enabling participants to base their decisions on facts rather than assumptions.”
The courses also focus on integrated biological control: “We highlight the importance of integrated pest management, particularly for fresh market production where minimal residues are crucial.”
Another focus point in the courses is understanding plant responses: “One of our main focuses is teaching participants how to read plant signals—whether it’s nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease. Plants always indicate when something is wrong; you just need to know where to look.”
With the growing demand for technical skills and sustainable greenhouse farming practices, the HortiDemoCentre’s short courses offer an ideal platform for building expertise, networks, and confidently advancing in the industry.
Greenhouse Training at Stellenbosch University – What’s Next in 2026?
While specific 2026 course dates have not yet been published at the time of writing, similar offerings in recent years have included introductory and advanced greenhouse production short courses, practical modules on greenhouse design and construction, and field-focused learning experiences that combine classroom instruction with active production units. These programmes are designed for emerging and commercial growers, agripreneurs, extension agents and students seeking to build expertise from seedling propagation through to harvest, with an emphasis on sustainability and climate-adapted practices.
Past short courses (e.g., in 2025) were delivered through blended modes — both on-site at the HortiDemoCentre near Stellenbosch and online — making them accessible to participants across Africa. Typical topics have included:
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Advanced greenhouse production and precision environment control
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Introduction to greenhouse and tunnel systems
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Crop strategy, fertigation and irrigation management
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Integrated pest management (IPM) in protected cultivation
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Crop-specific production techniques for tomato and cucumber
For the most up-to-date information on the 2026 schedule — including registration, fees and delivery formats — visit Stellenbosch University’s Short Courses portal or contact the Faculty of AgriSciences directly.
Second from the left is Dr. Estelle Kempen, with University of Stellenbosch students Adaduma Msana and Kolosa Nakani on the right
For more information:
Stellenbosch University – Faculty of AgriSciences
Dr Estelle Kempen
estellekempen@sun.ac.za
www.sun.ac.za
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