Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agribusiness Management

Purpose

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agric) (AGBM) seeks to equip learners with the requisite knowledge for not only running commercial farming enterprises of their own but also to play a significant role in both the public and private sectors of the economy. These learners will also be able to advise farmers and manage the agriculture divisions, and generate knowledge in the field of agribusiness management. This qualification is able to provide critical and necessary skills which will be attained from the theoretical and practical knowledge emanating from their engagement with various disciplines in the field of agriculture and business management. In particular learners are expected to cover a wide range of modules extending from business management (Economics, Business Management and Accounting provided by the School of Management Sciences), crop and animal production and a comprehensive focus on agribusiness and agricultural economics (from the School of Agriculture) with fundamental science modules such as Mathematics and Statistics (from the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences). The qualification will contribute towards the intended outcome of running commercial farming enterprises and to be able to play a role in the both public and private sector. In order to run a business one need skills in areas such as general management and accounting (offered by the school of management sciences), farm business management and general knowledge of farm operations, farm planning and production economics (offered by the school of agriculture) and research and other investigation techniques (statistics, research methods and mathematical economics) which is offered by both the schools of agriculture and natural sciences.

Rationale

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agribusiness Management) responds to the critical needs of agribusiness managers in the agricultural industry and to assist with implementation of national agricultural programmes such as AgriBEE, Land Reforms and other qualifications strategies that were designed to transform agriculture in South Africa. This is clearly outlined in the key agricultural strategic documents such as, 2005 the Strategic Plan for South African Agriculture (2005), the Government White Paper on Agriculture (1995) and the AgriBEE Framework for Agriculture (2003). At provincial level, the Limpopo Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) (2004-2014) called for skills development and the implementation of provincial human development, particularly the key areas of agriculture and agribusiness; mining and tourism as this is necessary to address black economic empowerment, reduce poverty, create jobs and promote growth in the Limpopo provincial economy.

This qualification aims to equip learners with the required management skills and expertise for managing medium to large scale commercial farms, using modern agribusiness techniques and also to provide the necessary manpower needed by the emerging farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs in South Africa. The qualification involves four years of training in technical aspects of agriculture, as well as in-depth courses in farm and agribusiness management, agricultural marketing and price analysis, agricultural production economic analysis, agricultural policy analysis, agricultural project planning, farm and financial management.

It is important to note that in South Africa there has been an upsurge, involving black people in agricultural land ownership and since the implementation of Land Reform Programme in recent years. Land transfers however occurred after a protracted period of deprivation that lasted for almost a century, leaving many new beneficiaries with very little or no farming skill. Contemporary agricultural qualifications are inclined towards crop, soil and animal production rather than managerial skills transfers that usher new farmers in the market that is already glutted for agricultural produce. Qualifications that are geared towards effective management of farming enterprises. Farmers will not only be provided with essential skills for managing their operations, but will also be well advised to focus on those commodities with market potential. Many trained agribusiness managers will emerge in order to satisfy the needs of the emerging farming sector and also potential commercial farmers. In the final analysis a cadre of high quality farmers that will compete with some of the best local and international farms. Existence of learners of this calibre is critical in the future of South African Agriculture considering the fact that the majority of agricultural productive land in South Africa will be in custody of these learners from their various backgrounds.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Department Admission Committee will evaluate the academic background and required experience based on merit of each case. The Committee after evaluation will make a recommendation to the School Admission Committee. The committee may require testimonials and proof of certificates.

RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to a particular qualification, but with proven expertise and competency will be considered. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification of study concerned.

Entry Requirements

Learners are required to have the following in place in order to be considered for admission

• National Senior Certificate granting access to Bachelor Studies.

or

• A Senior Certificate with endorsement for Degree entry.

or

• A National Certificate (Vocational) NCV at NQF Level 4.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 491 credits.

NQF Level 5 Modules, totalling 145 Credits

• English Communication Skills, 10 Credits.
• Mathematics for Life and Earth Sciences, 8 Credits.
• Anatomy, Histology and Physiology of Farm Animals, 12 Credits.
• Cell Biology, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Financial Accounting, 12 Credits.
• Ecology, Adaptation and Evolution, 16 Credits.
• Basic Statistics, 8 Credits.
• Computer Literacy, 10 Credits.
• English Communication Skills for Natural and Agricultural Sciences, 10 Credits.
• Agriculture and Humankind, 9 Credits.
• Financial Accounting, 12 Credits.
• Basic Statistical Inference (for Business, Economics and Social sciences), 8 Credits.
• Introduction to Business Management, 12 Credits.
• Functional Areas of Business Management, 12 Credits.

NQF Level 6 Modules, totalling 141 Credits

• Introduction to Animal Production, 9 Credits.
• Introduction to rural sociology, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Plant Production, 9 Credits.
• Introduction to Agricultural Economics, 12 Credits.
• Fundamentals of Business Finance, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Agricultural Mechanisation, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Agribusiness Management, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Agricultural Extension, 12 Credits.
• Dry land Farming Technology, 9 Credits.
• Purchasing and Supply Management, 15 Credits.
• Introduction to Soil Science, 12 Credits.
• Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.

NQF Level 7 Modules, totalling 84 Credits

• Farm Business Management, 12 Credits.
• Agric. Sector Planning and Project Appraisal, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Mathematical Economics, 12 Credits.
• Agribusiness Management and Applications, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Econometrics, 12 Credits.
• Introduction to Agricultural Extension, 12 Credits.
• International Trade and Finance, 12 Credits.

NQF Level 8 modules, totalling 121 Credits

• Research Methods for Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, 12 Credits.
• Agricultural Production Economics, 12 Credits.
• Agricultural Policy in Developing Countries, 12 Credits.
• Project and seminar Presentation, 14 Credits.
• Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits.
• Work Related Learning (First Semester: January to February), 30 Credits.
• Natural Resource and Environmental Economics, 12 Credits.
• Project and seminar Presentation, 14 Credits.

1. Provide leadership in farming planning, financing and general management of operations in the various subsectors.
2. Integrate all aspects that constitute theoretical knowledge and successfully complete a research in agricultural economy and allied disciplines.
3. Solve problems affecting agribusiness sector through various skills obtained from engagement sessions.
4. Exhibit detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of discipline-specific theories, and comprehension of the interactions between agricultural economics and the agricultural environment and the multidisciplinary nature of problems of farm management and extension.
5. Implement an integrated, sustainable agri-business management plan by applying business principles through utilising agricultural, financial, marketing and production-conversion information.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Familiarisation with farming operations is demonstrated.
• Various farming operations are identified (total farm size, sizes of land under various crops and/or livestock, lists and valuation of various farm equipments or assets).
• Financial statements are completed (income expenditure statements and balance sheets).
• A high level of ethical conduct in engaging with stakeholders, especially concerning assessing, processing, producing and communicating information is displayed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Ability to undertake research and write report is demonstrated.
• Experiential training work is undertaken and assessed.
• A portfolio of evidence is submitted.
• Logical methodologies and procedures related to complex challenges facing agribusiness sector are displayed in a coherent and easy to understand manner.
• Learning strategies are applied to assume full responsibility or accountability of all consequences emanating from such engagements.
• Practical applications are carried out and implemented with the participation of the farming communities.
• Research on training in agricultural economics is satisfactorily designed.
• Projects based thereon are satisfactorily completed.
• Scientifically acceptable reports are submitted.
• Exposure to the whole agribusiness sector comprising of input, farming and wholesale subsectors is understood.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Problems are identified, analysed and addressed systematically based on theory and practical skills gained from qualification.
• The complex and uncertain environment under which agribusiness sector operates is understood and best strategies to achieve positive farming outcomes are selected.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• The principles of agricultural economics to supervisors is comprehensively explained..
• Skills and management techniques are applied in the agricultural economy applied.
• The analysis of the limitations and potential of the agricultural sector are considered for the empowerment of managers in private enterprises as well as sections of the government sector dealing with agricultural matters.
• The ability to Problems relating to agricultural economics and management is detected, analysed and solved.
• Entrepreneurial skills are identified and explored, including a grasp of opportunities available in the agro-commercial environment are applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Opportunities in the improvement of the economy in previously disadvantaged communities is exploited and implemented, ultimately leading to the improvement in the quality of life.
• Sustainable agricultural systems are integrated into planning and management processes of entrepreneurial and enterprise activities.
• An agri-business management plan is developed for an enterprise which includes input for production, processing and value adding processes.
• A plan is developed and implemented for food safety and quality practices in an agricultural supply chain.
• The marketing and distribution component is integrated as a part of the total agri-business.

Integrated Assessment

Learners will have a minimum of two tests and two assignments for most modules. Some modules such as Farm Business Management will also include a project. Modules for the first and second year level will be moderated internally and for the third and fourth year will be subjected to external moderation.

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment will consist of the tests, assignments and projects during the semester from which students will receive feedback during the semester. Learners must achieve a minimum of 40% in their formative assessments to be able to sit for the examination.

Summative Assessment

Summative assessment will consist of an examination for most of the modules except the research project which will involve submission of a mini-dissertation.