Higher Certificate in Cannabis Production and Management

The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Cannabis Production and Management is to equip learners with knowledge and skills to produce Cannabis, cultivate, harvest, process and develop Cannabis products, thus preparing them to succeed in the Cannabis industry. This qualification will help regulate the industry and, in turn, lead to a more professional environment to move the industry forward. The qualification will also support a country's competitive strategy as South Africa seeks to become one of the leading Cannabis countries in the world.

While agriculture is the catalyst for the Cannabis industry, the term production in this qualification refers to cultivation, processing, packing, distribution and a wide range of other post-harvest downstream sectors. This is an industry qualification with a strong agricultural component. The qualification will facilitate learners, entrepreneurs, farm managers, business managers, retailers and medical and wellness professionals to develop a complete understanding of all aspects of the Cannabis industry, from cultivation to consumer and its global regulatory context.

Learners will be able to grow Cannabis for personal and commercial use, understand why people use Cannabis for both health and recreational reasons, gain knowledge about the uses of industrial Cannabis (hemp), and be exposed to the Cannabis supply chain, including testing/ extraction and manufacturing and the business of Cannabis. They will also be exposed to sustainable health, wellness and mindfulness as well as modern growing practices for Cannabis and food, including permaculture, to ensure that they are equipped with long-term sustainable methods.

These exit-level outcomes will enable graduates to enter the industry with a comprehensive understanding of the full Cannabis industry ecosphere and contribute across the value chain to support the growth of this new sunrise industry. The qualification will provide learners with knowledge across all areas of the supply chain so that they can confidently enter a sector vertical with broad-based knowledge.

Although the Cannabis industry begins with cultivation, it is crucial to recognize that cultivation serves as the catalyst for a myriad of downstream industries. These include but are not limited to the medical sector, health and wellness, retail, and scientific endeavours such as lab testing, extraction, and research and development, as well as lifestyle products. Additionally, cultivation supports numerous other industries within the extensive supply chain.

The qualification offers comprehensive knowledge of the industry, empowering graduates to assume various roles within it and equipping entrepreneurs with the essential skills to establish their own businesses. Given its status as a burgeoning industry, fostering a broad knowledge base is crucial, particularly as Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a pivotal role in driving the industry's growth and development.

Rationale

The South African Cannabis industry is poised for rapid growth but needs trained, educated personnel to support its growth. According to market intelligence and strategic consultancy firm Prohibition Partner, the legal cannabis industry in Africa is predicted to be worth more than $US 7.1 billion annually by 2023 and South Africa's domestic market for cannabis and related products, excluding non-psychoactive CBD products that are available legally, to be worth R27 billion ($US 2 billion) by 2023.

There are currently many SME's evolving in the space, but there is a challenge to find skilled staff to support their growth. There is also an urgent need to bring other industries online considering the economic climate, and as the industry opens, this will become a viable and attractive option to school leavers and people looking to shift careers. Cannabis has the potential to have a significant positive impact on the economy, facilitating large-scale job creation and assisting disadvantaged communities with making a living, as well as contributing to an overall improvement of the continent's health. However, for this potential to be realised, South Africa urgently needs a trained workforce.

The newly emerging Cannabis sector has a lack of accurate, relevant, current and trustworthy Cannabis information and skills training. The qualification will address the current skills gap and prepare a workforce to function optimally in the industry.

The qualification will prepare the learners for success in the Cannabis industry by providing

• the necessary knowledge to produce Cannabis: cultivate, harvest, process and

develop Cannabis products

• a deep understanding of the Cannabis industry's value and supply chain
• an understanding of medicinal Cannabis and how it works with the relevant bodies
• an overview of practicing sustainable and modern farming methods
• learning personal development methodologies and mindfulness.

The qualification was developed in consultation with professional trade bodies in the Cannabis Industry, namely, the Cannabis Trade Association of Africa, Friends of Hemp South Africa and the African Farmers Association of South Africa, Cannabis Commodity as well as the institution's academic advisory board to deliver relevant content to the industry.

This qualification will attract learners who have completed their National Senior Certificate and professionals who want to start working in the Cannabis industry. Typical learners may include:

• School leavers wanting to enter the Cannabis industry.
• University graduates wanting to enter the Cannabis industry.
• Cannabis industry workers looking to formalise their skills.
• Mature learners looking to change career paths.
• Other professionals looking to change career paths.

The qualification addresses the national need to develop competent Cannabis industry practitioners for South Africa in particular and across the continent in general. The qualification allows for graduates to enter the Cannabis industry and is relevant to both first-time entrants in the field and to those with industry experience but in need of additional educational qualification.

This qualification will also attract learners coming from other sectors who wish to enter the Cannabis industry. It will appeal to agricultural graduates, medical graduates, marketing graduates, health and wellness practitioners, retail specialists and science graduates who have a solid foundation in their field but wish to diversify and specialise in Cannabis.

Learners will be equipped with the relevant skills to work across various areas of the industry, including but not limited to:

• Cultivation.
• Processing.
• Manufacturing.
• Retail.
• Entrepreneurialism.
• Cannabis Health and Wellness.
• Cannabis medical.
• Distribution: Cannabis clubs and dispensaries.
• Sustainability.

As an entry-level qualification, this qualification will allow learners to access both the workplace and further education opportunities, including access to diploma and bachelor's degrees in agricultural management, crop production and alternative medicines. There is great potential for the Cannabis industry to have a significant positive impact on the economy. Considering the current economic climate, the Cannabis industry must be allowed to thrive and flourish to the benefit of the people and society. Learners will be provided with the necessary skills needed to grow and thrive in the industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The RPL is applied in line with the institution's Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Accumulation Policy policies. Learners meet with the programme assessor, who performs a needs assessment and advises on evidence to be collected or training to be attended.

RPL for access

• All learners should have learning in place at NQF level 4 or higher.
• Admission via RPL is possible in limited cases.
• Candidates for RPL admission will be required to demonstrate suitability.
• The institution makes provision for RPL admission up to a maximum of 10% per intake, 106).

RPL for credits

• The institution allows learners to acquire credits through recognition of prior learning and credit accumulation transfer procedures.
• Applicants who hold a qualification from another accredited institution or have formally completed components of another qualification should submit authorised evidence of those achievements.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.

Or

• Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, totalling 120 credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits

• Medical Cannabis, 7 Credits.
• Plant Botany and an Introduction to Cultivation, 10 Credits.
• Cultivation Management and Techniques, 24 Credits.
• Commercial Cultivation, 11 Credits.
• Cannabusiness, 23 Credits.
• Sustainability and Wellness, 8 Credits.
• New Sustainable Farming Methods, 26 Credits.
• Excursions/Assignment writing/Research, 11 Credits.

1. Apply foundational knowledge of Cannabis botany and cultivation principles to successfully grow Cannabis through all its life stages, demonstrating an understanding of plant anatomy, genetics, environmental conditions and sustainable growing practices.
2. Interpret and apply the regulatory and legal frameworks governing Cannabis in South Africa and internationally, with specific reference to medical Cannabis, adult-use Cannabis and industrial hemp, ensuring compliance with licensing, safety and quality standards.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the endocannabinoid system and the pharmacological effects of cannabinoids and terpenes and apply this knowledge to assess the therapeutic potential and contraindications of medical Cannabis in various patient contexts.
4. Use appropriate cultivation techniques and management systems to maintain Cannabis plant health, manage pests and optimise yield through different indoor, outdoor and sustainable farming methods, including permaculture, hydroponics and aquaponics.
5. Operate and manage tools, equipment and technologies used in Cannabis production and processing, ensuring efficient use across all stages from cultivation to post-harvest processes such as drying, curing and storage.
6. Demonstrate an integrated understanding of Cannabis value chains, including roles within the sector, marketing principles, product testing, extraction techniques and the development of Cannabis-based business models.
7. Apply entrepreneurial and project management skills to design, plan and implement Cannabis-related ventures, using tools such as project plans and Gantt charts, while demonstrating an understanding of agribusiness scaling strategies and rural economic integration.
8. Evaluate and apply sustainability and wellness principles in Cannabis cultivation and product development, including soil management, food security, medicinal plant use and holistic health interventions such as mindfulness and psychedelic-assisted therapy.
9. Collect, analyse and interpret information using appropriate research, analytical and testing techniques to inform decision-making across cultivation, compliance, processing and product development in the Cannabis industry.
10. Communicate effectively and ethically within the Cannabis industry, conveying ideas, technical processes and compliance requirements clearly to a range of audiences and demonstrating accountability, problem-solving ability and readiness for lifelong learning in a dynamic and evolving field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Identify the different parts of a male and female Cannabis plant and discuss their role during the plant's life cycle.
• Explain the role of Cannabis chemotypes, phenotypes, cannabinoid profiles and terpenes in the plant's chemistry.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different Cannabis seeds
• Describe the Cannabis gene pool, epigenetic origins of landraces, recessive and dominant genes, genetic deformities, hermaphroditism and breeding benefits.
• Maintain and maximise success through all the growing stages of the Cannabis life cycle.
• Discuss the impact of environmental conditions on the successful cultivation of Cannabis.
• Define companion planting in relation to Cannabis cultivation.
• Compare indoor and outdoor growing methods and identify the potential challenges with both growing modes.
• Describe the equipment needed for outdoor and indoor growing.
• Grow a Cannabis plant from seed to harvest.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Describe South Africa's current Cannabis cultivation and usage environment regulations and compliance.
• Discuss with a patient the legalisation of medical use of Cannabis in South Africa even though it is recognized as a federally illegal substance.
• Compare and relate the historical therapeutic uses of Cannabis to modern resurgence in patient use.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Summarize the functions of the Endocannabinoid system in the regulation of the

body.

• Discuss potential side effects of medicinal Cannabis and safety concerns associated with its use
• Discuss the therapeutic cannabinoids and terpenes benefits in the Cannabis medicinal use.
• Identify medical marijuana abuse and misuse signs, chronic effects and contraindications.
• Discuss human anatomy, physiology, food medicine history, and nutrients in relation to health and the prevention of certain diseases.
• Identify different plant species and their medicinal uses.
• Discuss the primary mindfulness interventions used in health care and community settings.
• Discuss the classic psychedelics history and pharmacology and the medicinal effects, including mystical experiences and the connection to spirituality and psychological and physiological healing.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Explain a permaculture food forest system that self-regulates over time, using syntropic stacking functions for continuous productivity over time.
• Explain sectors, zones, slope and climate in relation to permaculture to draw up a garden base plan.
• Discuss different hydroponic systems, growing media and equipment for crops, including Cannabis.
• Manage nutrition in hydroponic systems.
• Plan the greenhouse establishment and management in the hydroponic crop production.
• Apply technological knowledge and understanding of aquaponic systems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Identify and describe different growing methods and mediums used through the Cannabis life cycle.
• Select and use, and care for the appropriate tools and equipment during all Cannabis growth stages.
• Maintain Cannabis plants to ensure successful growth through to the flowering stage.
• Describe the methods and tools used to clone Cannabis.
• Identify and discuss successful growth nutrients necessary at each growth stage.
• Identify and discuss signs of nutrient-related issues in the Cannabis plant.
• Describe plant stress, disease, fungus, bacteria and pest infestation signs in the Cannabis plant.
• Select and describe remedies for Cannabis plant stress, disease and pest infestation.
• Assess the trichome development/ maturity index to determine harvesting time.
• Select and use tools, equipment and step-by-step methods appropriate to harvest Cannabis.
• Discuss the process followed when manicuring, drying, curing and storing Cannabis.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Explain the Cannabis Industry and the different roles and services associated with its Value chain.
• Discuss Cannabis Cultivation Licensing Requirements in South Africa, Africa and overseas.
• Examine the historical and legal framework that governs medicinal Cannabis, adult use Cannabis and industrial hemp.
• Describe the various analytical methods used to test for Cannabis potency and contamination.
• Compare and contrast cannabinoid and terpene extraction from Cannabis using four methods: rosin pressing, steam distillation, alcohol and CO2.
• Explain the principles and philosophy of industrial farming and scaling up.
• Discuss entrepreneurship and individual entrepreneurial characteristics.
• Discuss the steps taken to complete projects on time and budget using simple techniques and tools, including but not limited to a project plan (Gantt Chart).
• Define the main principles of marketing in relation to market strategies developed for a new business in the Cannabis industry.
• Discuss agronomic practices, growth cycle, chemistry, genetics and landrace strains in relation to Hemp farming and hemp production in South Africa.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Identify and describe the value chain, roles and niches within the Cannabis industry.
• Explain and discuss cannabis cultivation licensing requirements, including, but not limited to, SAHPRA High-THC Medical Cannabis Cultivation Licensing Requirements and GACP/GMP Licensing Procedures, Offtakes and Export Markets Compliance Integration.
• Draw a GACP/GMP Medical Cannabis Processing Facility Workflow Design and discuss QMS ISO:001/GMP requirements, including security and safety, standard operating procedures, record keeping, staffing and yearly compliance audits.
• Discuss the legal framework that governs Cannabis and any proposed working Cannabis model, including the legal status of THC and CBD in South Africa for medicinal and recreational use in food, beverages and cosmetics.
• Discuss an overview of Cannabis extracts (terpenes, hash, wax, rosin, oil, shatter, isolate) in relation to traditionally and popularly used methods to produce rosin pressing, steam distillation, alcohol and CO2.
• Identify and describe entrepreneurial opportunities within the Cannabis value chain.
• Define a project and draw up a project plan for an industrial farming project extension that meets the scaling-up principles and objectives.
• Discuss the steps taken to complete projects on time and within budget using simple planning and tracking techniques and tools.
• Discuss the marketing concept and the roles of the various stakeholders in the Cannabis supply chain and the marketing strategy development.
• Identify the good marketing plan and assess the alignment to the Cannabis supply chain environment.
• Discuss and explain financial management for commercial Cannabis growing facilities.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a proposed Commercial Cultivations site's suitability with regards to infrastructure, facilities, climate, lighting, logistics, equipment and automation requirements.
• Compare and contrast different Cannabis cultivation techniques and facilities.
• Discuss a sustainable commercial Cannabis production method, ideal agro-climatic zones and agronomic practices for different hemp varieties and product developments.
• Discuss agro-rural socio-economic integration at cultivation scale (agro-rural farmer integration) in relation to Hemp.
• Present a Cannabis related new business plan.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Describe the nature of soils and their suitability for growing plants, including Cannabis and methods to manage and improve soil productivity.
• Discuss the food challenges that lie ahead and methods to contribute to the provision of nutritious food for the growing demand in South Africa, Africa and globally.
• Identify ways to improve food security by alleviating the strain that food production, transportation, processing, and waste management have on environmental resources.
• Identify and discuss future trends and innovation in technology, health, farming, food and economic and political structures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9

• Apply various analytical methods to test for Cannabis contaminants and potency, including different chromatography methods.
• Collect information from a range of sources, including oral, written or symbolic texts appropriate to the Cannabis production and management.
• Analyse, synthesise and evaluate basic information processes in the medical Cannabis to track and trace cultivation and processing for a successful outcome.
• Efficiently manage and analyse information to support product consistency and consumer protection.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10

• Apply problem-solving techniques and principles within an entrepreneurial context.
• Reliably, accurately and coherently communicate information in written and oral or signed form or in the practical using conventions appropriate to the Cannabis production and management context.
• Demonstrate respect for conventions around intellectual property, copyright and plagiarism, including the associated legal implications in the Cannabis sector, which has a strong focus on medical, health and wellness, genetic IP and evolving new practices.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

Integrated assessment includes continuous evaluation of learner competence through written tasks, practical exercises, projects and oral assessments. Integrated learning activities and assessment strategies are aligned to module outcomes. Integrated assessment emphasises real-world Cannabis industry contexts to simulate work-integrated learning (WIL) principles.

Assessment is a mechanism for assuring the attainment and maintenance of academic standards. Assessment practices must be fair, valid and reliable in evaluating, grading and certifying learner performance against approved standards through methods of both formative and summative types of assessment used during a course in the process of learning.

Traditionally, assessment of theoretical work will involve coursework, written tests, examinations and class and agricultural area contribution and discussion. Practical work will involve progressive assessment and projects. These will be graded by the lecturers and internally moderated by the Head of Academics. Assessment will be clearly set out in the qualification documentation that is given to learners upon commencement of each module.

Formative and Summative Assessment

Written Exams

• Written exams may take the form of short questions and essays where appropriate.
• In certain instances, written exams may be combined with a multiple-choice format.
• Each theme/subject will have two written exam sessions:

Written Assignments

• Written assignments may take the form of essays, reports, work logs, portfolios, etc.
• Each theme/subject will have two written assignments.

Multiple-Choice Exams/Knowledge Checks

• A portion of course theory may be examined through multiple-choice exams.
• In certain instances, the multiple-choice format may be combined with written questions.
• Each theme/subject will have four knowledge checks.

Viva Voce / Practical

• These examinations are designed to test learners' abilities under 'real world' conditions and will take place at the institution's practical facilities.
• Examiners traditionally ask questions of learners on a one-to-one basis.
• Each theme /subject will have a minimum of one practical.

Practical Assignments

• Learners may be required to complete a series of practical assignments utilising practical resources.
• Marks awarded for these assignments are traditionally weighted in accordance with the module outlines
• Each theme /subject will have a minimum of one practical assignment.

Experiential/Authentic Assessment

• Experiential and work-based learning is integrated into all modular formative and summative assessments, and these are assessed by the relevant lecturer.
• Learners are required to complete logbooks, reflective tasks and depending on the qualification.

Integrated assessment is designed to ensure that theory is applied in the context of real or simulated work contexts and where applicable, relevant to the learner's own workplace, displaying an applied knowledge of the learning experience. Formative Assessment constitutes 40% of the final mark. The Summative Assessment constitutes 60% of the final mark.