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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93711  Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  384  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The qualification aims to train and equip agricultural extension practitioners with the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to build the capacity of farmers and farming communities to engage in market-orientated sustainable agricultural production, diversification of products and value adding, to improve their household livelihoods and to contribute to strengthening the rural economy.

The qualification was particularly designed to develop the capacity of Agricultural Extension practitioners who will work in agricultural and rural development in the NGO sector, for government service, for agri-business and for other private sector companies involved with farmers and rural communities.

Bachelor of Agriculture (B Agric) graduates will contribute to improving and enhancing the quality and effectiveness of agricultural extension services. They will help meet the demand for professionals who can lead and manage agricultural extension through the complex world of agricultural and rural transformation.

Rationale:
In Mpumalanga, the agricultural sector is the largest user of land, covering approximately 68% of the province. The province is well known for citrus, subtropical fruit, nuts and a variety of vegetables. The province is well positioned to expand its contribution to the Growth and Development Programme (GDP) as well as to the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers. The proposed Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management enables the university to demonstrate that it reflects this particular character of Mpumalanga while concomitantly preparing the learners to work and contribute in the wider South African economy as well as internationally.

Agricultural extension is an important element in the transformation of the agricultural sector in South Africa. As identified in the National Strategy for Agriculture the National Strategy for Agricultural Education and Training (AET) and the Norms and Standards for Agricultural Extension, there is an urgent need for extension practitioners who are appropriately trained to meet the demands highlighted by agricultural policy. It is a scarce skill in the country. In this way, and others, the B Agric will contribute significantly to addressing the challenges of the developmental state.

The Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management builds on the existing strength of the academic qualifications of other institutions which has decades-long experience in training agriculturalists. It promotes life-long learning as training takes place by putting emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving and reflection. Being, on the other hand, wholly new, the curriculum can be created uniquely to suite the demands of South Africa's transitional agriculture, unencumbered by a past academic heritage. At the same time, it will work in partnership with both the provincial Department of Agriculture and the University of Pretoria as well as with a number of Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Community-Based Organisations and private agricultural companies which are all accessed to contribute to the qualification and feature especially prominently in the final year mandatory placement module.

The Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management herein proposed is an essential first component of agricultural qualifications to be offered by the institution. Agricultural extension presents the human components of the technical agricultural sciences. It focuses on the development of farmers through the training of extension workers who can be deployed by the state, NGOs or the private sector. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Applicants who do not meet the admission criteria as stipulated will be considered through an RPL process. 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. The process will be implemented in strict adherence to the relevant University RPL Policy.

Entry Requirements:
Learners must have the following to gain admission for the qualification:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC), granting access to Degree studies.
  • Senior Certificate, with matriculation exemption.
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Degree studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 384 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Farming Systems, 16 Credits.
  • Natural Resource Identification, 16 Credits.
  • Farm Infrastructure, 16 Credits.
  • Agricultural Production, 16 Credits.
  • Impact on Natural, 16 Credits.
  • Production Economics and Marketing, 16 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 5 - 96.

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Rural Wealth Creation, 16 Credits.
  • Rural Economic Systems, 16 Credits.
  • Extension Methods, 16 Credits.
  • Beef Production, 16 Credits.
  • Forage Management, 16 Credits.
  • Infrastructure and Machinery Development, 8 Credits.
  • Farm Business Management, 8 Credits.
  • Farm Development, 16 Credits.
  • Extension Practice, 16 Credits.
  • Field Crop Production, 16 Credits.
  • Vegetable Production, 16 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 6 - 160.

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Designing Extension Projects, 16 Credits.
  • Participatory Extension, 16 Credits.
  • Land Use Planning, 32 Credits.
  • Farm Finance, 32 Credits.
  • Extension Placement, 32 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 7 - 128. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply the principles and philosophy of extension in practice to implement policies and strategies related to extension and advisory services in agriculture.
    2. Implement a communication strategy by applying the principles of communication, leadership skills and group dynamics in extension for the benefit of the target group.
    3. Facilitate behaviour change and adoption of innovation for impact on local economic development through the production of food, the improvement of household food security and access to mainstream agriculture.
    4. Design and implement an integrated development/extension project that improves and sustains agricultural production and the livelihoods of clients.
    5. Implement an integrated, sustainable agri-business management plan by applying business principles through utilising agricultural, financial, marketing and production-conversion information.
    6. Implement an integrated, sustainable farming systems plan by applying natural resource management principles.
    7. Apply animal production practices to ensure the quality of livestock on a farm.
    8. Apply production practices to plant systems to ensure the quality of the yield on a farm. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Extension approaches are compared and recommended in terms of relevance to the 'client', the particular issue being addressed and alignment towards policies and strategies relevant to agriculture.
  • Relevant policy documents are interpreted in terms of the principles and philosophy of extension.
  • Extension project plans are interpreted and evaluated according to the principles and philosophy of extension.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • A communication plan in extension is developed, managed and evaluated for the purpose and outcomes of the service to be delivered.
  • The selection and application of written, verbal and non-verbal communication techniques and tools in extension are evaluated for applicability to diverse situations.
  • The principles of communication are applied to optimise the impact and effectiveness of the extension project.
  • Group techniques and tools are selected and applied to attain previously set objectives.
  • Conflict resolution techniques and tools are identified, selected and applied to attain previously set objectives in diverse situations.
  • Group discussions are facilitated in decision-making by applying the theories, principles, techniques and tools of group dynamics to optimise the impact and effectiveness of the extension project.
  • The leadership principles and skills are applied in facilitation of a group to promote participation and progress in decision-making.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Theories and processes are selected and applied amongst diverse clientele to optimise the impact of extension in community development interventions.
    > Range: Theories and processes refer to behaviour change, diffusion and adoption of innovations, participatory technology innovation/development, and decision-making.
  • Multi and inter-disciplinary teams are established and facilitated to optimise extension service delivery through the interfacing of research, extension, and farmer/producers and input suppliers for increased participation.
  • An intervention plan which supports improvement of production of food, household food security and access to mainstream agriculture is designed, implemented, managed and assessed for impact on local economic development.
    > Range: Intervention refers to behaviour change, diffusion and adoption of innovations, participatory technology innovation/development, and decision-making.
  • Indigenous knowledge and practices are identified and integrated with agricultural science innovation strategies.
  • Beneficiaries are enabled to access information in lobbying and mobilising required resources to improve production and livelihood.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Selected and applied extension approaches are relevant to the target individual/group and the particular issue being addressed.
  • Extension projects are designed according to the principles and philosophy of extension and in accordance with relevant national and provincial strategies, including identified goals, descriptions and main elements of the project.
  • Resources needed to complete the plan are acquired and mobilised according to the requirements of processes and systems in extension.
  • Extension projects are implemented in accordance with the plan and in the context of the particular work place.
  • Extension projects are managed to ensure that the aims of the project are realised.
  • Extension projects are evaluated in terms of the intended outcomes of the project plan, are clearly articulated and are integrated with parallel extension plans.
  • Behaviour change and innovation are facilitated to realise the outcomes of the extension project are realised.
  • Project information is recorded, reported and stored according to required formats and protocol and are current, complete, and concise.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • 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.
  • A data collection plan is developed and implemented for farming enterprises.
  • Financial information is analysed and interpreted on an ongoing basis in support of growth in the agri-business.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Sustainable systems thinking is integrated into planning and management processes of an agricultural enterprise.
  • Farming systems are optimised and integrated to ensure sustainable resource allocation and utilisation.
  • Describe the process of optimisation of agricultural and environmental resources for quality and quantity in a sustainable farming system.
  • A natural resource management plan of the farm is implemented in relation to area wide planning of local government structures and policies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Animals are evaluated and managed according to specific criteria related to anatomical, physiological, physical and biochemical systems.
  • Health care, prevention and treatment procedures are developed and implemented to maintain and enhance the condition of livestock.
  • A strategic animal nutrition plan is developed to support the production of livestock and animal products.
  • Advanced breeding and selection practices are applied and integrated into a breeding management programme.
  • Guidance is provided during the harvesting of animal products.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The responses of plants to the environment and how they impact on growth and production is determined by applying the basic biochemistry processes involved in the anatomy and physiology of a plant.
  • A soil fertility, irrigation and plant nutrition plan is developed for growth and maximise plant health.
  • Plants are propagated in a variety of production systems by applying different processes and methods to optimise yield.
  • Integrated pest management principles are applied by identifying, monitoring and controlling pests and plant diseases to conserve the environment.
  • Weeds are controlled through the application of a variety of methods for environmental conservation.
  • A plant manipulation management plan is applied and managed to maximise growth and yield.
  • Different harvesting plans are implemented and co-ordinated to minimize damage and enhance and ensure quality of the end product.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Appropriate policies and procedures are in place for internal assessment; internal and external moderation; monitoring of student progress; explicitness, validity and reliability of assessment practices; recording of assessment results; settling of disputes; the rigour and security of the assessment system. Semester tests, oral examinations, practical assignments and semester examinations are used to ensure that assessment is of an appropriate mix and balance. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Modern agriculture is complex and only individuals who have gone through an extended period of preparation in agriculture can effectively participate and contribute in it. The Bachelor of Agriculture in Agricultural Extension and Rural Resource Management is compared with other qualifications offered by countries with best practice in agriculture and with similar focus.

    The Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Nairobi and the Egerton University in Kenya offer Bachelor of Science Degrees in Agriculture focusing in Education and Extension. The qualifications prepare the manpower essential for school agriculture, agricultural extension and rural development. The graduates from these Universities are sufficiently qualified to assume responsibilities in the private sector and set up their own businesses.

    Charles Sturt University in Sydney in Australia also offers a Bachelor Degree in Agriculture. The qualification provides training in the major disciplines that underpin knowledge and skills in agriculture required to operate modern agricultural industries.

    The Massey University in New Zealand, Universidad de Costa Rica and Lincoln University are other institutions that offer qualifications with similar focus in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification compares favourably with the qualifications cited in terms of duration, normally extending over a period of three to four years and each year consisting of two semesters. The qualifications aim to provide the scientific and technological base necessary for the development of the agricultural and rural sectors. Research conducted also considers agro-industrial related practices vital for rural areas such as preservation, processing and added-value of agricultural products. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontally this qualification may articulate with:
  • Bachelor of Science: Agriculture: Livestock Science and Agricultural Extension.
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Production and Management.

    Vertical articulation is also possible with:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours: Agriculture: Agricultural Extension.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture Honours: Crop: Horticulture Production: Agricultural Extension.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture Honours: Pasture: Livestock Production: Agricultural Extension. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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. University of Mpumalanga 


    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.