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 Animal Production 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93907  Diploma in Agriculture in Animal 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  380  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 the qualification is to strive for the advancement of agricultural development in South Africa and neighbouring countries.

The Diploma in Agriculture in Animal Production is designed to:
  • Provide well trained and highly skilled manpower to the Animal Production industry.
  • Enhance environmental awareness.
  • Engage in support programmes for emerging farmers.
  • Promote harmonious working relations with farming stakeholders and other business sectors in the community.

    Rationale:
    Animal production plays a vital role in the agricultural and rural economies of the developing world. Livestock raises farm production by extending the area of land utilised, diversifying productive activity for crop cultivators. Animals are a crucial link in nutrient cycles, returning nutrients to the soil in forms that plants can readily use. This qualification intends to equip learners with agricultural knowledge and skills to be utilised in alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable food security through animal production. 
    		•

    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 a Diploma in Agriculture Plant Production qualification. Proven expertise and competency will be considered. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification study achieved.

    Access to the Qualification:
    Prospective learners must have at least:
  • National Senior Certificate with Agriculture, and or Agricultural Management Practices, and or Agricultural Technology.
  • National Certificate (Vocational) at NQF Level 4.
  • A relevant Further Education and Training Certificate (NQF Level 4) qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5 and 6. At NQF Level 7, learners choose four modules totalling 48 Credits. The qualification credits total 380.

    Modules at NQF Level 5 (120 credits):
  • Agricultural Calculations I, 8 Credits.
  • Basic Plant and Animal Science, 12 Credits.
  • Farm Mechanisation and Structure, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Economics, 10 Credits.
  • Computer Application I, 10 Credits.
  • Communication, 8 Credits.
  • Agricultural Calculations II, 8 Credits.
  • Land Use Planning I, 12 Credits.
  • Anatomy and Physiology, 12 Credits.
  • Farm Mechanisation and Structure II, 10 Credits.
  • Computer Application II, 10 Credits.
  • Soil Science I, 8 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6 (212 credits):
  • Land Use Planning II, 12 Credits.
  • Extension I, 10 Credits.
  • Animal Breeding, 12 Credits.
  • Natural Resource Management, 12 Credits.
  • Financial Management, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Nutrition, 12 Credits.
  • Aquaculture I, 12 Credits.
  • Veld Management, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Health, 12 Credits.
  • Extension II, 10 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management, 8 Credits.
  • Agricultural Marketing, 12 Credits.
  • Experiential Learning, 60 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 8 Credits.
  • Ethics, 8 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7 (48 credits - select four modules):
  • Dairy Production, 12 Credits.
  • Beef Production, 12 Credits.
  • Small Stock Production, 12 Credits.
  • Poultry Production, 12 Credits.
  • Pig Production, 12 Credits.
  • Cultivated Pasture, 12 Credits.
  • Aquaculture II, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Extension III, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an understanding of Anatomy and Physiology of different animals.
    2. Demonstrate an understanding of management of rural structures and their challenges.
    3. Identify different resources and skills to sustain animal production practices.
    4. Demonstrate the skills of effective communication and transference of knowledge.
    5. Demonstrate an understanding of the skills and knowledge required in farming.
    6. Apply entrepreneurial skills in relation to managing finance, marketing, sales and customer relations. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Structures and functions of anatomy and physiology are explained.
  • Essential life supporting systems are identified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Various strategies available to plan more effectively are reflected on and explained.
  • Veld management strategies are developed.
  • Fire belts are created to eliminate the risk of fire.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Characteristics and adaptability are used during selection for breeding purposes in beef, dairy, small stock, poultry and pig production.
  • New technologies of selective breeding including artificial insemination are administered.
  • Diseases and parasites are controlled by administering pest prevention methods.
  • Feeding routines are monitored and controlled.
  • Methods of fodder conservation, hay and silage making are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • 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 5:
  • 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 6:
  • A business plan is developed.
  • Marketing strategies are developed considering 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:
    Students shall write a minimum of two tests in every module/course of the qualification. The tests must be moderated by the Head of Department. Learners will write assignments/tutorials and or practical to introduce them to start thinking critically and develop their analytical skills. There will be compulsory projects run by learners in some of their core modules/courses. Compulsory projects will be quality assured by the respective Head of Department. Every module/course shall have the semester mark depending on the arrangement of the module/course lecturer.

    There will be continuous assessment through group discussions; individual homework and answering questions during lessons. There will be one examination at the end of the semester. Students will be given an opportunity to write supplementary examinations when necessary.

    Students will have to submit weekly and monthly reports during experiential learning. At the end of the experiential learning students must submit six months reports and do presentations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    ACS Distance Education in the United Kingdom offers a Diploma in Animal Husbandry. The qualification aims to provide knowledge in both practical and theoretical farming of animals.

    Core Modules:
  • Animal Anatomy And Physiology (Animal Husbandry I).
  • Farm Management.
  • Pasture Management.
  • Research Project.
  • Research Project.
  • Workplace Health and Safety.
  • Workshop I.

    Stream Modules:
  • Animal Health Care.
  • Animal Feed and Nutrition (Animal Husbandry III).
  • Animal Health (Animal Husbandry II).
  • Animal Breeding.
  • Soil Management (Agriculture).
  • Agricultural Marketing.
  • Sustainable Agriculture.

    Elective Modules (any 11 of the following modules):
  • Natural Health Care for Animals.
  • Diagnosing Animal Diseases.
  • Beef Cattle.
  • Calf Rearing.
  • Dairy Cattle.
  • Pigs.
  • Poultry.
  • Sheep.
  • Goat Production.
  • Horse Care I.
  • Horse Care II.
  • Horse Care III.
  • Breeding Horses.
  • Animal Behaviour.
  • Aquaculture.
  • Mariculture - Marine Aquaculture.
  • Dog Care.
  • Agronomy.
  • Biochemistry I (Animal and Human).
  • Business Studies.
  • Carpentry.
  • Engineering I - Machinery and Equipment.
  • Instructional Skills.
  • Engineering II - Engineering Applications.
  • Irrigation - Agricultural Irrigation.
  • Permaculture Systems.
  • Workshop II.
  • Organic Farming.

    The Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences at the University of Manitoba 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, agricultural merchandising.

    A Diploma in Agriculture is offered by the Lincoln University. The University has a Special admission for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents over 20 years of age.
  • 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.

    In Tanzania the Livestock Training Institute at Tengeru, Morogoro, Mpwawapwa, Madaba, Temeka and Buhuri offer a Diploma in Agriculture Animal Production.

    Conclusion:
    Even though the above qualification may not have the same modules the qualifications still compare favourably with the Diploma in Agriculture Animal production in terms of the rationale. These qualifications focus on developing a farmer with skills to manage a farm. Learners are also equipped with entrepreneurial skills. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The Diploma in Agriculture Animal production will articulate:
  • Horizontally with Diploma in Plant Production.
    Or
  • Vertically with Bachelor of Science: Agriculture in Animal Production or Bachelor of Institutional Agriculture in Plant Production. 
    		•

    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.