Mangosuthu University of Technology

Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Crop Production

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture

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Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with knowledge of Agriculture in Crop Production and equip them with skills related to crop production. A qualified learner will be able to:

  1. Develop a business plan to guide operations and ensure economic efficiency and success.
  2. Solve market-led agricultural extension challenges and apply management theories in agricultural projects.
  3. Manage water efficiently and safely in agricultural activities.
  4. Understand and apply crop improvement technologies in local and international contexts.
  5. Perform laboratory diagnosis procedures in Plant Pathology.
  6. Plan sustainable land use for profitability.
  7. Read scientific publications, write seminars, and conduct research.
  8. Articulate the methods and importance of Agriculture in society.
  9. Demonstrate expertise in one or more disciplinary areas of Agriculture.
  10. Analyze and solve agricultural problems by gathering and evaluating information.
  11. Communicate agricultural information effectively to various audiences.
  12. Be accountable for their own learning and practice ethical conduct in their work.

Rationale

Agriculture plays a vital role in the country's economy and is essential for meeting basic needs. The qualification aims to prepare learners to provide advice, entrepreneurial skills, and promote Agriculture in communities. Upon completion, learners will be competent advisors in crop production practices, entrepreneurs creating jobs, and prepared for further studies in agriculture.

Outcomes

  1. Develop a business plan that is sound so as to guide operations of the business and also take into account all the requirements for the achievement of the economic efficiency and success in the operation of the business.
  2. Solve market-led agricultural extension challenges, identify opportunities and apply salient features of various theories and approaches in management of agricultural projects.
  3. Manage water in agricultural activities such that it is used efficiently and environmentally safely.
  4. Understand the different crop improvement technologies and their applications and also apply principles of crop improvement to local and international situations theoretically.
  5. Conduct laboratory diagnosis procedures associated with Plant Pathology.
  6. Plan profitable and sustainable use of land.
  7. Access appropriate scientific publications and develop research proposals.
  8. Use practical knowledge to manage different aspects of Soil Ecology to ensure sustainable soil quality under cropping activities.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Understanding the nature and value of Strategic Management
  • Understanding the importance of corporate social responsibility
  • Understanding ethical and lawful business operations
  • Understanding the time value of money and investment opportunities
  • Achievement of careful and detailed planning

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Identifying, describing, and analyzing links between agriculture and the food industry
  • Identifying, describing, analyzing, and applying management theories and their functions

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Harvesting and storing water appropriately
  • Using crop role of climate and global warming in water management
  • Reducing water losses affecting irrigation appropriately and efficiently

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Explaining the principles of Mendelian genetics for crop improvement
  • Discussing the breeding history of important agricultural crops
  • Differentiating between artificial and natural selection
  • Identifying and explaining heritability factors influencing crop improvement
  • Discussing different breeding processes currently used
  • Discussing the role of gene banks on crop variation

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Demonstrating understanding of diagnosis procedures in a Plant Pathology laboratory
  • Identifying plant diseases using laboratory equipment
  • Demonstrating understanding of principles of plant disease epidemiology monitoring
  • Explaining the process involved in breeding for resistant cultivars
  • Learning and applying relevant legislation

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Identifying and practicing legislation governing land use
  • Identifying, interpreting, and putting different maps into practical perspective
  • Delineating using appropriate factors
  • Planning an enterprise programme accordingly
  • Using bio-resource unit software to determine the most profitable enterprise

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Reading scientific papers with understanding
  • Synthesizing information from different sources to write scientific literature surveys and seminars
  • Using appropriate software for citations
  • Designing a research project
  • Analyzing experimental data

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • Analyzing and putting soil physical properties into practical perspective
  • Analyzing and putting soil chemical properties into practical perspective
  • Identifying soil fauna and discussing their role in Soil Ecology
  • Identifying soil microflora and establishing their role in soil properties
  • Identifying production systems and discussing their role in soil chemical, microbiological, and physical properties

Integrated Assessment:

  • Assessments ranging from tests, assignments, projects, to writing research proposals and examinations depending on the module

Formative Assessment:

  • Minimum of two (2) tests or per module
  • Minimum of one (1) scientific assignment per module

Summative Assessment:

  • A 3-hour written examination per module, except for Land Use Planning IV and Research Methodology IV which are continuous assessment subjects

Qualification Details

Type
Advanced Diploma
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Mangosuthu University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology
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Description
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is a higher education institution located in Durban, South Africa. It was established in 1979 and is named after Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a prominent South African politician and traditional leader. MUT offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including engineering, business, health sciences, and natural sciences. The university aims to provide quality education and practical training to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. MUT is known for its strong focus on applied research and innovation, collaborating with industry partners to address real-world challenges and contribute to economic development. The university also emphasizes community engagement and social responsibility, encouraging students to actively participate in community projects and initiatives. With modern facilities and a diverse student body, MUT provides a supportive learning environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. The university is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity, ensuring equal opportunities for all students. Overall, Mangosuthu University of Technology is a reputable institution that offers relevant and industry-focused education, preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.