Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Animal Production

Rationale

The University of Technology (UoT) is in the process of shifting from qualifications offered during its Technikon era to new qualifications of UoTs as approved by the Council on Higher Education. The Advanced Diploma will proceed the Diploma in this hierarchy of new qualifications. Learners have also complained of not being able to continue their studies since no qualifications higher than the National Diploma in agriculture is offered in the institution. Learners will now be in a position to continue to higher qualifications through the Postgraduate Diploma, Professional Masters and Doctorate.

Agriculture is one of the fields that could drive the economy of our country; no matter the circumstances, people have to eat and dress, and it is agricultural activities that form the basis for these basic needs. The process of land restitution is also an indication that more still needs to be done in promoting agriculture in communities, and this is what this qualification is about. The Advanced Diploma curriculum is such that it prepares learners to be advisers to individuals and communities on best animal production practices, to be entrepreneurs and to be in a position to pursue further studies. Whatever option the learners decides on, that agricultural destination would be receiving an individual who is competent in different aspects of agricultural animal production.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

As per the university's policy (Recognition of Prior Learning Policy), candidates who meet the requirements for advanced standing to the Advanced Diploma will be considered for admission to the qualification.

Vertical Articulation

• Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Production, NQF Level 8.
• Bachelor Honours in Animal Production, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules,80 Credits

• Beef Production IV, 20 Credits.
• Land Use Planning IV, 20 Credits.
• Milk Production IV, 20 Credits.
• Research Methodology IV, 20 Credits.

Elective Modules, 40 Credits (Choose Two)

• Agricultural Extension IV, 20 Credits.
• Pig Production IV, 20 Credits.
• Poultry Production IV, 20 Credits.

1. Develop a business plan that is sound so as to achieve the economic efficiency in the operation of the animal production business.
2. Apply salient features of various theories and approaches on animal production prohects.
3. Apply advanced knowledge on the animal production industry.
4. Use feed formulation programmes to develop feed rations for different animal enterprises.
5. Apply advanced knowledge on breeding and selecting of animals.
6. Apply biosecurity measures.
7. Understand the value-addition options of animal products.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand and apply marketing strategies with respect to economic gains from different animal enterprises.
• Understand enterprise budgeting with respect to different aspects (e,g inputs, work force, infrastructure) of animal production.
• Evaluate land appropriately for different animal enterprises.
• Understand and apply programme planning cognisant of different animal enterprises and market forces.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Identify, describe and analyse links between agriculture and the food industry.
• Identify, describe, analyse and apply management theories and their functions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Identify, describe, analyse and apply management theories and their functions.
• Develop, manage, monitor and evaluate projects of different animal enterprises.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Use nutrition computer programmes to formulate least-cost feed rations for different animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Apply appropriate computer breeding programmes are applied to aid in production of desired quality animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Compile and apply vaccination programmes for different enterprises as per enterprise requirement.
• Conduct microbial survey on production facilities to ensure a productive environment for animals.
• Understand and apply animal welfare regulations to ensure compliance on helath and welfare for the environment and inhabitants.
• Follow prescribed biosecurity measures to ensure a healthy production environment.
• Understand and apply the meat cold chain and the Meat Safety Act to ensure healthy raw materials and products.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Understand value-adding processed and select appropriately as per required product.

Integrated Assessment

Whilst the number and types of assessments will differ between the different modules, they will range from tests through assignments and projects to writing of research proposals and examinations.

Formative assessment: Assignments/case studies/practical assignments/tests per module scientific assignment per module.

Summative ssessment: Written examination per module except for Land Use Planning IV and Research Methodology IV which are continuous assessment subjects.