2016 COCHRAN FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES
The Cochran Fellowship Programme started 32 years ago by the late U.S. Senator
Thad Cochran of Mississippi. His vision was to provide training and support to
developing nations improve their agriculture and food systems and to strengthen and
enhance trade links with the Unites States. The United States Congress has made
funds available for training of Agriculturalists from middle income countries and
emerging democracies.
The aim of the training programme is to bring together professionals in different
technical fields in agriculture as well as engaging participants in seminars, industry
visits and workshops. All training takes place in the United States of America.
On an annual basis, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)
receives an invitation from the US Embassy to publicise the opportunity for qualifying
officials to apply. The technical Directorates within DAFF and Provincial Departments
of Agriculture nominate eligible candidates to apply. The final selection of successful
candidates is done by the US Embassy.
Targeted training areas for 2016:
The following training programmes are available:
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Utilization of Agriculture Market Information Systems:
This programme will assist in developing more accurate national crop area
estimates in Southern Africa through the use of remote sensing/GPS
Technology.
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WTO: SPS and Trade Facilitation Agreements:
This programme will offer targeted training on WTO commitment to
strengthen the capacity of policy makers to draft and implement sound and
transparent trade regulations.
Eligibility requirements:
Candidates will be evaluated, interviewed and selected based on the following
criteria:
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Tertiary qualification with 3 years of practical experience or working
towards
Early to mid stage in their professional career
Citizens of South Africa
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Participating candidates should be currently employed by government or
research institution with the intent to continue to work in South Africa for a
minimum of 1 year following their return from the United States.
The fellowship is fully funded and will cover the following:
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Tuition
Books
Accommodation
Allowance (minimum)
Meals
International airfare (return ticket) will be paid by Directorate: Sector
Education and Training.
Completed application forms and attachments should be submitted before or
on 16 November 2015 and may be addressed to:
Directorate: Sector Education and Training
20 Steve Biko Street (Old Beatrix Rd) (V block Ground Floor 11)
Pretoria
0001
Tel: 012 319 7019 / 012 319 7159
Fax: 012 319 6851
E-mail: JackyS@daff.gov.za or AbisaaiS@daff.gov.za