The history of the NGPR
- The NGPR was established following many years of planning and discussion on 30 November 2021, when its founding members adopted its constitution and voted in its first Chairperson (Mr Jannie de Villiers) and two Co-Directors (Dr Miekie Human (Grain SA) and Prof Cobus M Visagie (FABI-UP)).
- The founding members include representatives from industry (Grain SA, SANSOR, the Maize Trust), academia (University of Pretoria, University of the Free State and Stellenbosch University), and government (Department of Science and Innovation and Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development).
- This followed many years of planning and discussions between the members.
2022
NGRP research day, University of Pretoria:
The inaugural NGPR Research Day was hosted at the University of Pretoria from 8–9 May 2022, bringing together founding members from academia, industry and government. The event established the platform for collaboration within the NGPR network, enabling stakeholders to share research priorities, strengthen partnerships and align efforts supporting South Africa’s grain production sector.
- Launch of the NGPR research collaboration platform
- Presentation of early research initiatives and priorities
- Stakeholder engagement across industry, academia and government
2023
NGRP research day, Stellenbosch University:
Following the successful inaugural meeting, the 2023 NGPR Research Day at Stellenbosch University focused on expanding collaboration and evaluating progress across funded research initiatives. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to share findings, align objectives and promote innovation within the national grain research community.
- Presentation of ongoing NGPR research projects
- Strengthening collaboration across member institutions
- Discussion of sector challenges and research priorities
2024
NGRP research day, University of the Free State:
The 3rd NGPR Research Day, hosted by the University of the Free State from 3–5 April 2024, focused on strengthening collaboration between research institutions, industry stakeholders and government partners. The programme showcased ongoing research initiatives while promoting innovation and knowledge sharing across South Africa’s grain production sector.
- Research presentations and technical discussions
- Stakeholder networking and collaboration sessions
- Industry-driven research priority alignment
2025
NGRP research day, North-West University and the Agricultural Research Council:
Building on previous research days, the 2025 NGPR Research Day focused on advancing collaborative research initiatives addressing challenges within the grain and oilseed sector. Hosted by North-West University and the Agricultural Research Council, the programme promoted knowledge sharing and strengthened partnerships supporting sustainable agricultural development.
- Presentation of latest NGPR-supported research outcomes
- Collaboration between academia, industry and government partners
- Discussion of future research priorities and innovation opportunities
NGPR Impact
Advancing Collaborative Grain Research in South Africa
The National Grain Research Platform (NGPR) continues to provide a collaborative environment where industry, academic and government partners work together to address challenges within South Africa’s grain and oilseed sector. Through annual research days and ongoing engagement, the platform supports knowledge exchange, innovation and coordinated research initiatives that contribute to sustainable agricultural development.