SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Certificate in Precision Farming 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125477  Advanced Certificate in Precision Farming 
ORIGINATOR
Peritum Agri Institute PTY Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced Certificate  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0638/26  2026-03-10  2029-03-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-03-10   2033-03-10  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Advanced Certificate in Precision Farming is to introduce learners to the basic knowledge and principles of precision agriculture and to develop competencies to select and apply precision agriculture tools, techniques, and technologies.

The qualification will target farmers and farm managers who operate in agricultural enterprises where precision farming and agricultural methods are applied or intended to be phased in. The qualification is also relevant to agricultural advisors and technicians who wish to develop knowledge and competence in precision farming technology.

On completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of precision farming, the importance and impact thereof, and know the advantages of technological applications in crop and livestock farming.
  • Select and apply precision farming tools, technologies, and practices for crop as well as livestock farming.
  • Select and apply the standard equipment, technologies, and farming practices used in precision livestock farming.
  • Collect, analyse, and apply data for crop production and livestock farming.
  • Plan and manage the integration and implementation of precision farming to operate a financially viable farm within a supportive agricultural environment.

    Rationale:
    Climate change and sustainable food production are currently key drivers of the national and global development agenda, and they will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Globally, countries are combining efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted in 2015, the SDGs call for major transformations in agriculture and food systems to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition. Food and nutrition are basic human needs that are key to building a better future for all.

    The United Nations estimates that the world population of 7.6 billion is expected to reach 8.6 billion in 2030 and increase to 9.8 billion in 2050. Based on these figures, the United Nations projects that food production from plants and animals will need to 70% increase by 2050, compared with 2009, to meet food demand. Contributing to the increasing demand for food, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported that the ripple effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have contributed to one of the worst food crises in decades, with acute food insecurity affecting 200 million more people globally than in 2019 due to rising costs of food, fuel, and fertilizer.

    The increasing demand for sustainable food production poses enormous challenges to farmers. The sustainable production of food depends on the availability of natural resources, a healthy ecosystem, and a favourable climate. Globally, farmers, governments, and scientists face the challenge of increased food production without exacerbating environmental degradation and the climate crisis, which itself contributes to food insecurity in the global south. Although farms and effective food systems are crucial to achieving food security, they simultaneously seem like a significant environmental threat. Food systems a catch-all term to describe the way humans produce, process, transport, and consume food are the largest culprit when it comes to land degradation, the report says, they account for 80% of deforestation, 29% of greenhouse gas emissions, and the leading share of biodiversity loss.

    Agriculture is a major contributor to the country's economy, creates jobs, and addresses a global need for increased food production. Key to the international agriculture agenda is the sustainability of agricultural practices, i.e., to optimize production whilst using natural resources wisely. The single most important need for a sustainable food future is boosting the natural resource efficiency of agriculture and increasing production to feed a growing population. The benefits of precision farming are numerous. By using data-driven insights to optimize crop growth, farmers can reduce waste, increase efficiency, and improve yields. Precision agriculture represents a shift towards a more data-driven and sustainable approach to farming, allowing farmers to optimize their operations while minimizing their environmental footprint. The qualification will increase sustainable food production (SDG 2 and 3) and has a significant impact on the sustainable use and management of natural resources (SDG 11, 12, and 13).

    The single most important need for a sustainable food future is boosting the natural resource efficiency of agriculture, that is, producing more food per hectare, per animal, per kilogram of fertilizer, and per litre of water. It is evident that agriculture remains key to a sustainable future, but how we farm and produce food must change. Precision farming is a modern agricultural practice that utilizes technology to optimize crop yields and reduce environmental impact. It involves using sensors, GPS, and other technologies to collect data on soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop growth, which is then analysed to make precise decisions about planting, fertilizing, and harvesting.

    This qualification includes basic strategies and principles of precision agriculture and develops competencies to select and apply precision agriculture tools, techniques, and technologies. The qualification is intended for farmers and farm managers who operate in agricultural enterprises where precision agricultural farming methods are applied or intended to be phased in. The qualification is also relevant to agricultural advisors and technicians who wish to develop knowledge and competence in precision farming technology.

    The qualification is offered over 1 year of full-time studies, via blended learning (online with limited contact sessions). Learners remain in the workplace and will be required to attend scheduled contact sessions for practical work, demonstrations, and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). The qualification is ideal for farmers and learners in agriculture who are not necessarily able to leave their workplaces for lengthy periods of time, and are not able to attend some of the full-time higher education degrees, primarily for the following reasons:
  • lack of funding to support three years of full-time studies and boarding at a tertiary institution in an urban area.
  • Often, young farmers are involved on the farm from a young age- farming over weekends with parents or a single parent, and have taken up a key role in the production management process.
  • Many young agriculturalists prefer/would respond better to a practical approach to learning, rather than a pure academic approach to learning after completing school. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is subject to the institutional RPL policy and procedure administered by a dedicated RPL office.

    RPL for access:
  • The institution provides for admission based on deserving learners' prior learning and experience.
  • In exceptional cases where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, they may be allowed access via a rigorous process to assess and recognize prior learning.
  • Not more than 10% of enrolments per cohort will be admitted via RPL.

    In line with the Peritum RPL Policy, recognition can be granted irrespective of the context of the learning experience, provided that the prior learning can be assessed and that credits may be awarded based on that assessment to permit entry into the qualification. RPL denotes a process whereby the applicant submits a portfolio of evidence that includes:
  • a detailed curriculum vitae.
  • proof of accredited qualifications obtained.
  • any other accredited or certified learning.
  • evidence of non-formal learning (work experience in the engineering sector).
  • evidence of informal learning experiences, such as e.g., work on a farm or relevant agricultural industry, community work, etc.
  • evidence of work experience in the relevant field of study.

    Applicants submit their applications and portfolios for consideration by the Academic Committee. The Academic Committee assigns a panel to evaluate each application on a case-by-case basis. It compares the applicants' prior learning and experience with the learning outcomes, knowledge, and competencies required for studies.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Higher Certificate in Farming, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in General Agriculture, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Occupational Certificate: Poultry Farmer, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 6, totalling 120 credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Introduction to Precision Farming, 15 Credits.
  • Precision Arable Farming Technologies, 20 Credits.
  • Processes of Precision Arable Farming, 20 Credits.
  • Precision Arable Farming Tools Applied, 5 Credits.
  • Precision Livestock Farming Technologies, 20 Credits.
  • Precision Livestock Farming Tools Applied, 5 Credits.
  • Precision Farming Technology Integration and Business Management, 15 Credits.
  • Precision Farming Practice (WIL), 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an informed understanding of the importance of precision farming for purposes of effectiveness and efficiency in agricultural production.
    2. Demonstrate an ability to select and apply the standard equipment, technologies, and farming practices used in precision crop farming.
    3. Demonstrate an ability to select and apply the standard equipment, technologies, and farming practices used in precision livestock farming.
    4. Demonstrate an ability to collect, analyze, and apply data for crop production and livestock farming.
    5. Plan and manage the integration and implementation of precision farming to operate a financially viable farm within a supportive agricultural environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Discuss the importance of precision farming and mapping for decision making
  • List the benefits of precision farming.
  • Select appropriate information from prescribed literature sources to justify the role and implementation of precision farming technologies and practices within the agricultural industry.
  • Discuss the geographical aspects of precision farming.
  • Differentiate the precision agriculture cycle.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Distinguish and discuss the selection of precision arable farming technologies.
  • Examine and apply the principles of remote sensing in the field, crop, and pasture systems.
  • Discuss the global navigation satellite system (GNSS), including the global positioning system (GPS) for precision arable farming.
  • Briefly, analyse Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for precision arable farming.
  • Explain the usage of intelligent devices and implements (IDI) in precision arable farming is explained.
  • Use standardized procedures for the physical analysis of soil.
  • Apply technologies and processes for precision arable farming on the farm.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Explain the advantages and domains of precision livestock farming (PLF).
  • Outline Precision farming technologies for the monitoring of the nutrition, physical environment, health, reproduction, and behaviour of a selection of livestock and poultry.
  • Manage the welfare of a selection of livestock and poultry by analysing, implementing, and evaluating data collected during monitoring activities on the farm.
  • Apply technologies and processes for precision livestock farming on the farm.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Discuss data collection and analysis for precision arable farming.
  • Apply data analysis for crop production.
  • Apply data analysis for livestock production.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Set goals based on the results of precision agriculture.
  • Discuss the financial aspects of precision farming, and determine the appropriate equipment and software.
  • Plan the integration and business management of precision agriculture.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) serves as the integrated assessment component. This approach synthesizes theoretical knowledge with practical application through:

    Continuous Assessment During Placement:
  • Learner logbook documentation.
  • WIL hosts workplace assessments.
  • Lecturer/assessor evaluations.

    Summative Component:
  • Portfolio of Evidence submitted at semester conclusion.

    WIL hosts assess practical skills, knowledge application, and professional attitudes.
    Facilitators evaluate the achievement of learning outcomes and knowledge integration capabilities.

    This integrated model ensures learners demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical competency, aligning with the qualification's emphasis on applied precision farming expertise. The WIL component specifically addresses the integration of academic knowledge with industry practice, making it the programme's primary integrated assessment vehicle.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment in theoretical modules provides ongoing feedback and supports learning during instruction.

    Formative assessment comprises 70% of the final module mark and includes:
  • Minimum of one semester test.
  • At least one assignment emphasizing farming practice applications.
  • One online activity.
  • Additional opportunities as determined by module requirements.

    This substantial weighting reflects the qualification's vocational orientation, prioritizing independent work and practical application over traditional examination-based assessment.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment evaluates final achievement at module completion through written examinations, contributing 30% of the final mark.

    Key requirements include:
  • Minimum 40% examination performance for module progression.
  • Overall modules pass threshold of 50%.
  • Re-examination opportunity for Learners achieving 45-49% final marks. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification compares well with similar qualifications offered internationally.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: Kirkwood Community College
    Qualification Title: Precision Agriculture Certificate
    Credits: 18
    Duration: 1-year Full-time

    Purpose:
    This qualification is an undergraduate certificate that teaches learners the tools and processes of precision farming. This includes using Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and Intelligent Devices and Implements (IDIs). Learners will collect information, analyse data, and implement best management practices into farming practices.

    Similarities:
  • Kirkwood Community College (KCC) and South African (SA) qualifications are offered in one year full-time.
  • Both qualifications share a similar purpose and learning outcomes: to analyze and interpret agricultural data to make informed decisions.
  • The content of the KCC qualification includes Precision Farming Systems, Agricultural Spatial Analysis, principles of Agronomy, and Precision Farming Software, similar to the SA qualification content and outcomes.

    Difference:
  • The KCC qualification consists of 18 US credits, whereas the SA qualification consists of 120 credits.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: University of Saskatchewan
    Qualification Title: Precision Agriculture Certificate
    Entry requirements:
  • Completion of at least 24 credit units of post-secondary coursework
  • Minimum average of 70% on 18 or more transferable credit units or the cumulative weighted average from a recognized and/or accredited post-secondary institution

    Purpose:
    The undergraduate certificate is designed to gain knowledge and to develop experiential skills in precision agriculture by leveraging skills from the academic discipline. Precision Agriculture is the precise management of crops to increase both production and sustainability. The learning outcomes include understanding the basics of precision agriculture and utilizing precision agriculture tools and analytic techniques within a GIS system.

    Similarities:
  • University of Saskatchewan (US) and South African (SA) qualifications share a similar purpose, such as to utilize precision agriculture tools and analytic techniques within a GIS system.
  • Learners will learn about the technologies used in precision agriculture (satellite imagery, global positioning systems, etc.) to measure and manage variability in crop production. Similar to the SA qualification, the US qualification includes theoretical work and practical application (experiential skill). Courses (modules) in the programme include Introductory Precision Agriculture and Geomatics. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal, vertical and diagonal articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Nature Conservation, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Agriculture in Mixed Farming, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Agriculture in Plant Production, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Operations and Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Crop Production, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture in Rural Development, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • National N Diploma: Farming Management, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Peritum Agri Institute PTY Ltd 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.