It is that time of the year when our second-year forestry students at NMU Saasveld are starting their full-year compulsory experiential training.

As expected, Covid and the associated impact it has had on our Sector has affected the placement of students. Of the total of 87 students, only 28 have secured placement. This is of major concern as it will result in serious ramifications to the academic programme as well as in the lives of our students.

It is important to note that many of the students already receive financial support for their experiential training from the FP&M SETA and National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in the form of a stipend while on experiential training. This will lighten the financial burden on hosts when hosting students and serving as mentors to our students.

We understand the challenges our Sector is currently facing but would appreciate any assistance from our Industry partners in this regard. Correspondence from NMU pertaining to the placement of students as well as Guidelines for hosting students provides more detailed information about the experiential training.