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Agricultural pioneer receives honorary degree from SU
Author: Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking
Published: 07/12/2022

​​Thomas Dreyer (Tommie) van Zyl, a prominent thought leader and innovator in South Africa’s agriculture sector, was awarded an honorary degree by his alma mater Stellenbosch University (SU) at its December graduation. He received the degree Doctor of Agriculture (DAgric), honoris causa, on Tuesday (6 December 2022) at an in-person graduation ceremony for the Faculty of AgriSciences.

Van Zyl was honoured for his leadership in South African commercial agriculture, his contribution to sustainable agricultural and conservation practices, and his commitment to creating development opportunities for small-scale farmers as well as promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.

In his acceptance speech, Van Zyl expressed his gratitude to SU for bestowing upon him the honorary degree and also thanked his family and friends for having made this possible.

He said that throughout his life he has committed himself to the goal of creating a future in Africa with farming.

“Success in farming involves the creation of sustainable value for a variety of stakeholders over a very long time. This requires a fine balance between protecting the environment, creating economic value and advancing the community’s prosperity.”

Van Zyl added that he is inspired by the task to continue to help create a meaningful future in South Africa.

“I dedicate this award to all the people who want to and can systematically build an orderly and civilised society not only in South Africa, but in Africa with prudence, temperance, fortitude and justice.”

More about Van Zyl
As a well-respected thought leader in the agriculture sector, Van Zyl has been at the helm of the ZZ2 farming enterprise, an innovative fresh-produce company, for more than 20 years.

The company is a significant contributor to socioeconomic development in South Africa, creating multiple employment opportunities at various levels, including opportunities for emerging entrants and small-scale farmers.

Van Zyl has made noteworthy contributions to the development of sustainable agricultural and conservation practices. As an innovator, he regularly shares the global stage with peers, deliberating on sustainable solutions to secure the future of the agricultural sector. To him, entrepreneurship is imperative to be able to create sustainable economic value.

This alumnus of Stellenbosch University previously also served as director and vice-chair of the American-based Produce Market Association, and he chaired South Africa’s Agricultural Produce Agents Council for seven years. He continues to serve as a director on various boards, and his expertise and achievements have earned him numerous local and international awards.

Photo: Thomas Dreyer van Zyl at the graduation ceremony. Photographer: Stefan Els