Stellenbosch University Empowers Young Women in the World of Wine

In 2023, Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of AgriSciences and the Department of Viticulture and Oenology, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), the Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG), and the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute, welcomed 22 female students in Grade 11 from various provinces to participate in the Viticulture and Oenology Winter School Programme.

Immersing in the World of Wine and Grape Cultivation

The three-day programme took participants on a journey through the picturesque Cape Winelands, acquainting them with the captivating realm of grape and wine sciences. The selection of students hailed from various schools, including Nkomazi High School, Ermelo Combined School, Guduza Secondary School, Warburton Combined School, Wem Combined School in Mpumalanga, Tsoseletso Secondary School in the Free State, and the SciMathUS programme at Stellenbosch University. Abiding by age restrictions, no alcohol was consumed during the programme.

Delving into the Complexities of Winemaking

Guided by industry connoisseurs, these young women delved into the complexities of winemaking. During their three-day adventure, they explored distinguished wine farms like Vredenheim, Lievland, Babylonstoren, The House of JC Le Roux, and Alto Wine Estate. From vineyards to cellars, the students witnessed the artistry and dedication behind producing the Cape’s unparalleled wines.

Empowering the Next Generation of Wine Enthusiasts and Professionals

The programme’s hands-on approach fostered a profound understanding of the wine industry, acquainting these students with both the scientific and artistic facets of winemaking. Interactive sessions sparked their curiosity, offering invaluable insights into potential careers within the grape and wine sectors.

Professor Maret du Toit of Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of AgriSciences and Oenology said, “We firmly believe in empowering the next generation of wine enthusiasts and professionals.” The aim of this programme was to ignite their passion for the grape and wine sciences and allow them to see the diverse career opportunities in studying towards this degree.

Collaboration of Participating Wine Estates

The success of this programme largely rested on the collaboration of participating wine estates, whose eagerness to share their expertise and welcome the students into their facilities created a genuinely enriching experience.

Ms. Votelwa Ndana from DALRRD mentioned, “DALRRD is proud to be part of this programme, fostering a spirit of collaboration between educational institutions and industry professionals. Through events like these, the Department aims to shape the future of young people and expose them to the other side of agriculture that most of them do not know about. The wine industry is one of the department’s identified prioritized areas, and there is a demand for young women to bridge the gap in the wine industry.”

Empowering Aspiring Grape and Wine Specialists

Since 2019, the annual Viticulture and Oenology Winter School Programme has provided participants with an unparalleled opportunity to delve into grape cultivation and winemaking, fostering a deep appreciation for the industry and empowering them to pursue their aspirations. With unwavering support from industry professionals and dedicated partners, the programme will continue to inspire and shape the future of aspiring grape and wine specialists for years to come.