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: 

Diploma in Agriculture in Plant Production 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93748  Diploma in Agriculture in Plant Production 
ORIGINATOR
Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  388  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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 purpose of this qualification is to produce a Farm Manager, Agricultural Technician, or Agricultural Extension Officer, with specific reference to plant production. A learner assessed against this qualification will have the necessary competence to monitor, plan, control and provide leadership regarding plant production. The learner will be competent in specialised sub-field of plant production such as Vegetable production, Fruit production, Hydroponics.

Rationale:
Staple food for the majority of people in the developing regions is derived from plants. Rice, wheat and maize globally supply more than 50 percent of human calorie requirements. Products from plants are the major source of both food and employment. The provision of basic information to farmers about soil conservation, irrigation, planting methods and food storage is vital. Getting farmers the best possible seeds and fertilizers is also essential. The qualification aims to assist farmers with the factors indicated. It is also envisaged that through this qualification issues relating to food crop production, the harvesting, storage, handling, processing, trading and marketing of foods and food products will be addressed. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to the Diploma in Agriculture Plant Production. Proven expertise and competency will be considered. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior study achieved.

Entry Requirements:
Prospective learners must have at least one of the following:
  • National Senior Certificate NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies with Agriculture, and/or Agricultural Management Practices, and/or Agricultural Technology.
  • National Certificate (Vocational) NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies with Agriculture and/or Agricultural Management Practices, and/or Agricultural Technology.
  • A relevant Further Education and Training Certificate NQF Level 4 in Agricultural Management Practices, and/or Agricultural Technology. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7. Learners must choose two electives at NQF Level 6 and one elective module at NQF Level 7. The total number of the Credits for the qualification is 388.

    Modules at NQF Level 5 (114 Credits):
  • Agricultural Calculations I, 8 Credits.
  • Basic Plant and Animal Science, 10 Credits.
  • Natural Resource Management, 10 Credits.
  • Production Economics (Agricultural Economics I), 10 Credits.
  • Computer Application 1, 8 Credits.
  • Communication, 8 Credits.
  • Sociology, 6 Credits.
  • Agricultural Calculations II, 8 Credits.
  • Farm Accounting (Financial Management), 10 Credits.
  • Computer Application II, 8 Credits.
  • Agricultural Extension I (Introduction to Extension), 10 Credits.
  • Soil Science I, (Introduction to soil Science), 10 Credits.
  • Ethics, 8 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6 (206 Credits):
  • Human Resource Management, 8 Credits.
  • Plant Breeding, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Mechanisation and Structures, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Extension II, 8 Credits.
  • Crop Protection I, 12 Credits.
  • Fruit Production, 12 Credits.
  • Irrigation and Water Management, 12 Credits.
  • Crop Protection II, 12 Credits.
  • Soil Science II, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Marketing (Agricultural economics II), 10 Credits.
  • Field Crop Production (Agronomy), 12 Credits.
  • Experiential Learning, 60 Credits.

    Elective modules (select two):
  • Vegetable Production, 12 Credits.
  • Floriculture, 12 Credits.
  • Industrial Crop production (Agronomy), 12 Credits.
  • Agro-Forestry, 12 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7 (68 Credits):
  • Soil Science III, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Extension III, 10 Credits.
  • Nursery Management, 12 Credits.
  • Land use planning, 12 Credits.
  • Farm Business Management Entrepreneurship, 10 Credits.

    Elective Modules (select one):
  • Organic Farming (Systems), 12 Credits.
  • Agro-Food Processing, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate knowledge of the science of soil management, land cultivation, and crop production.
    2. Apply methods of protecting plants from pathogens.
    3. Manage and establish citrus and other subtropical fruits.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of various methods of plant breeding techniques.
    5. Manage natural resources and the interrelationship within environmental sciences.
    6. Demonstrate the skills of effective communication and transference of knowledge.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of the skills and knowledge required in farming.
    8. Apply entrepreneurial skills in relation to managing finance, marketing, sales and customer relations. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Factors that have an influence on crop production such as climate, soil, crop improvement (genetics), are identified and explained.
  • All cultural practices required to grow and manage selected grain crops are carried out.
  • The processes of managing, harvesting and grading grain crops are applied.
  • Detailed treatment of major grains, roots, tubers, oils and fibres, with regard to economic importance, is explained.
  • Climatic and soil requirements, cultural practices, nutrient requirements, fertilisation, disease, pest and weed control, harvesting, post harvest handling and storage are explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Crop damage is assessed and appropriate pest control methods are determined.
  • Pathogenic effects on plant physiological functioning are explained.
  • The ecological background to pest control is explained.
  • Pest control procedures are explained.
  • Pest control practices are applied.
  • Collection, identification and classification of weeds in cropping systems are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Land is prepared for planting.
  • Pruning and trimming is conducted to increase productivity.
  • Grafting and budding are properly administered.
  • Propagation of rootstock and cutting in the greenhouse is conducted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Reproductive Systems of plants are explained.
  • Methods of breeding in plants are administered.
  • Breeding self-pollinating crops is applied.
  • Genetic engineering in Plant Breeding is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Different types of environmental degradation and its impact on the environment are identified.
  • Ethics of environmental management and environmental laws are applied.
  • The importance of natural resources for plant growth and the implications for population growth and food production are explained.
  • Study is conducted of soil developed from different parent materials as influenced by other soil forming factors and physical properties of soils.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Key elements of communication in agriculture are applied.
  • General principles for effective communication for rural development are identified and used.
  • Good communication strategies in agricultural extension are developed.
  • Methods of communicating agricultural information and advice are applied.
  • Factors affecting the effectiveness of communication methods are identified and dealt with.
  • Effective methods to communicate key values to stakeholders and customers are developed and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • A land-use plan is introduced and implemented at the farm.
  • Farming machinery is operated and maintained.
  • Operation, care and maintenance of power sources is carefully planned and managed.
  • Correct and appropriate storage methods for farming equipment are applied.
  • Efficient irrigation methods in relation to soil texture are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • A business plan is developed.
  • Marketing strategies are developed with consideration of the target group.
  • Communication and implementation of a strategic marketing plan is discussed.
  • Financial records are kept for analysis of farm accounting information.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Assessment includes the following:
  • Assignments to be completed.
  • At least two tests per module per semester.
  • A written final examination at the end of each semester for each module taken. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences at the University of Manitoba in Canada offers a two-year Diploma in Agriculture which is aimed at preparing learners to manage a farm or work in an agricultural business. The qualification also develops learners' communication and leadership skills in marketing and financial services, livestock and crop supply, crop management and agricultural merchandising.

    A Diploma in Agriculture is offered by the Lincoln University in New Zealand. The qualification equips learners in farm management systems, computing, plant husbandry, soil management, livestock production systems, plant and animal health. The University has a Special Admission Policy for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents over 20 years of age.

    Modules:
  • Computing and Communication.
  • Farm Management Systems A.
  • Plant Husbandry.
  • Soils and Soil Management.
  • Livestock Production Systems.
  • Plant and Animal Health.
  • Engineering I.
  • Farm Management Systems B.
  • Learners must complete 12 weeks of approved practical work.

    The Faculty of Agriculture at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) in Jamaica offers a Diploma in Agriculture that is aimed at providing education and training in Agronomy and related courses.

    Modules:
  • Animal Health.
  • Introduction to Horticulture.
  • Ornamental Gardening and Landscaping.
  • Vegetable Production.
  • Non-Traditional Crop Production.
  • Integrated Pest Management.
  • Turf Management.
  • Agricultural Mathematics.
  • Swine Production Practices.
  • Small Stock (Sheep and Goat).
  • Poultry Production.
  • Pasture Management.
  • Soil Conservation and Watershed Management.
  • Soil Science.
  • Agricultural Marketing.
  • Field and Vegetable Crops.
  • Entrepreneurial Studies.
  • Livestock.
  • Crops.
  • Cooperative Internship Education Programme.

    The University of New England in New South Wales offers a Diploma in Agriculture that is offered online or on campus. The qualification seeks to broaden learners' existing knowledge and give skills and training in a wide variety of agricultural sub-disciplines.

    Modules:
  • Animal health and welfare.
  • Applied animal nutrition.
  • Cotton production.
  • Feedlot management.
  • Meat science and technology.
  • Poultry production.
  • Sustainable grains production.
  • Wool production.
  • General agriculture.

    Conclusion:
    Qualifications selected for comparability with the Diploma in Agriculture Plant Production have the same focus, which is to develop a farmer with skills to manage a farm and play a role in agricultural economy. Even though the modules and all the examples given are not the same throughout, the Diploma in Agriculture Plant Production still compares favourably with the rationale of these qualifications. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The Diploma in Agriculture Plant Production will articulate:

    Horizontally with the following Qualifications at NQF Level 6:
  • Diploma in Agriculture Animal Production.
  • Diploma in Agriculture.
  • Diploma in Agriculture in Irrigation.

    Vertically with the following Qualifications at NQF Level 7:
  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Plant Production.
  • Bachelor of Institutional Agriculture in Plant Production.
  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Plant Breeding. 
    		•

    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. Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture 


    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.