Looking back
The history of the NGRP
The NGRP traces its origins to...
a long process of relationship-building between South African universities, the grain industry and government. A key milestone was reached in July 2018, when the University of Pretoria, Grain SA and SANSOR signed Memoranda of Understanding, formalising their intent to develop a national grain research partnership. This laid the groundwork for FABI launching its multi- disciplinary Grain Research Programme (GRP) in August 2020, bringing together partners from across industry, government and academia with the shared goal of supporting the grain and oilseed sector through scientific research and human capacity development.
The NGRP was formally established 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).
The NGRP annual research day
The NGRP annual research day is the platform’s highlight event in the calendar year, providing a forum for grain and oilseed stakeholders to engage and discuss current trends in the industry and how research can support these efforts.
1st NGRP Research Day
8-9 May 2022
University of Pretoria, Pretoria
The inaugural NGRP Research Meeting was hosted by FABI 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 NGRP network, enabling stakeholders to share research priorities, strengthen partnerships and align efforts supporting South Africa’s grain production sector.
- Launch of the NGRP research collaboration platform
- Presentation of early research initiatives and priorities
- Stakeholder engagement across industry, academia and government
2nd NGRP Research Day
4-5 Apr 2023
Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch
Following the successful inaugural meeting, the 2023 NGRP 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 NGRP research projects
- Strengthening collaboration across member institutions
- Discussion of sector challenges and research priorities
3rd NGRP Research Day
3-5 Apr 2024
University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
The 3rd NGRP 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
4th NGRP Research Day
18-20 Mar 2025
North-West University and the Agricultural Research Council, Potchefstroom
Building on previous research days, the 2025 NGRP 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 NGRP-supported research outcomes
- Collaboration between academia, industry and government partners
- Discussion of future research priorities and innovation opportunities
5th NGRP Research Day: From Alignment to Impact
1-3 March 2026
Future Africa, University of Pretoria
The 2026 National Grain Research Platform (NGRP), hosted by Grain SA, brought together stakeholders from across the grain value chain with a clear message: South Africa has the research, innovation, and expertise to succeed, but stronger collaboration is needed to turn ideas into practical results. Discussions focused on the financial pressures facing producers, the need to improve technology adoption, and the importance of science-based policy and regulation to keep the industry competitive.
Key takeaways:
- Better alignment between research, policy, and industry.
- Faster adoption of innovation at farm level.
- Practical research that improves producer profitability.
- Strong collaboration to drive future growth.
Meaningful scientific outcomes
Combining knowledge, experience and passion to deliver meaningful scientific outcomes.