UNIVEN Equips Livestock Farmers with Skills to Boost Animal Health and Productivity

The University of Venda (UNIVEN) will host its first Animal Health and Management Workshop for sheep, goat, and beef cattle farmers on 23 June 2026, providing practical knowledge and hands-on training to improve livestock productivity and support sustainable agro-processing in the Vhembe District and beyond.
Organised by the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture through the Experimental Farm, the workshop will take place at the Agricultural Hall under the theme, “Animal Health and Management for Sheep, Goats, and Beef Cattle for Sustainable Agro-processing.”
The initiative forms part of a series of farmer development programmes leading up to the University of Venda Annual Farmers Day 2026 and reflects the University’s commitment to advancing rural agricultural development and farmer empowerment.
Approximately 150 livestock farmers from across the Vhembe District are expected to attend the workshop alongside emerging producers, agricultural extension practitioners, academics, and industry stakeholders.
Participants will engage with experts on practical animal health management strategies designed to improve livestock performance, reduce disease outbreaks, and strengthen the livestock value chain. Key topics will include livestock hygiene,
common animal diseases and prevention measures, vaccination programmes for sheep, goats, and beef cattle, precision livestock farming technologies, and practical demonstrations at the Experimental Farm.
Through knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration, the workshop seeks to equip farmers with the skills needed to enhance sustainable livestock production while contributing to local economic growth and the long-term development of the agricultural sector.
The University of Venda remains dedicated to supporting farmers and strengthening food security through research-driven solutions, capacity building, and partnerships that promote sustainable agriculture and agro-processing.
Members of the media are encouraged not to miss this important gathering of farmers, agricultural experts, researchers, and industry stakeholders. The workshop will provide valuable insights into innovative livestock management practices, emerging farming technologies, and practical solutions to challenges facing the livestock sector. It also presents an opportunity to capture compelling stories of rural agricultural development, farmer empowerment, and the role of higher education in driving sustainable food production and economic growth.
For more information, kindly contact the Experimental Farm Manager, Ms Thifheli Kutama, on 015 962 8649 / 067 594 3047 or send an email to Thifheli.kutama@univen.ac.za