career talk

The history of agriculture dates back to thousands of years ago when man-made tools were used to practice farming and where subsistence farming (farming for family) was introduced. Over time, as technology evolved and the climate changed, people had no choice but to adapt so machinery in agriculture was created.

BRANCHES OF AGRICULTURE

Agriculture has an official list of 20 branches, including forestry, agricultural engineering, agribusiness, animal and soil sciences, to name a few. Choosing a course in this field will also require you to do studies that revolve around economics, plant pathology, horticulture and entomology. It is proven in the National Development Plan (NDP) that scientific knowledge in agricultural production is a critical skill.

BUT FIRST, FARMING Types of farming include: MIXED FARMING

This involves the growing of crops, and rearing of farm animals such as cows, goats and sheep, on the same piece of land.

Qualifications in mixed farming:

• National Certificate (NQFLevel 2): Mixed Farming

Systems • National Certificate (NQF Level 1-4): Plant Production • National Certificate (NQF Level 1-4): Animal Production • BAgric Majoring in Mixed Farming Management (University of Free State )

Other study paths include:

• Plant pathology • Agronomy • Animal and crop production • Animal breeding • Commercial farming This is a large-scale farming operation, owned by a corporation, that produces crops and other agriculture for profit. This type of farming often involves monoculture, where you grow a single type of crop - the wine farms in Stellenboch are examples of this type of farming.

What you can study:

• Soil Science • Agricultural Science • Veterinary Science • Biochemistry

What you can be:

• Agricultural lender • Crop adjuster • Agricultural lobbyist

PASTORAL FARMING

Also known as livestock farming, this is aimed at farming animals rather than crops. Here you would raise beef cattle for meat or sheep for wool.

What you can study:

Animal Science or Animal production - a type of science where you study farm animals, their diseases, their growth and production, or their genetics.

Studying time period:

4-5 years if you apply for a B.Sc 3 years for a Diploma 1 year if it is a Higher Certificate

CULTIVATING YOUR CAREER

Read on if you are passionate about agriculture and considering career options in the industry.

By Lusanda Tamesi

TOP AGRICULTURAL COLLEGES IN SA IN 2022

• Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (TARDI) • Tompi Seleka Agricultural College • Taung Agricultural College • Owen Sithole College of Agriculture (OSCA) • Lowveld College of Agriculture (LCA) • Fort Cox College of Agriculture and Forestry Training

Institute (FCAFTI) (Private Institute) • Ekurhuleni Agricultural College • Potchefstroom College of Agriculture • Glen College of Agriculture • Elsenburg Agriculture Training College • Marapyane College of Agriculture • Madzivhandila College of Agriculture

QUALIFICATIONS OFFERED BY COLLEGES

• Higher Education in Agriculture • Diploma in Agriculture • Diploma in Agribusiness • Diploma in Animal Production • Diploma in Forestry

UNIVERSITIES OF CHOICE

• UNISA • University of Free State • Stellenbosch University • University of Pretoria • University of Fort Hare • Nelson Mandela University • Rhodes University

QUALIFICATIONS OFFERED BY UNIVERSITIES

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc.) Mathematics and Science • B.Sc. Plant Pathology • B.Sc. Viticulture and Oenology • B.Sc. Soil Sciences • B. Sc. Agric Agronomy

REQUIREMENTS TO STUDY AGRICULTURE

• NSC or IEB school leaving certificate is required for most courses with at least 24 points (APS) • English (HL or FAL): Level 4 • Mathematics: Level 4 or Mathematical Literacy: Level 6 • Life Sciences / Agriculture: Level 4 • Physical Sciences: Level 4

WHERE YOU CAN APPLY FOR WORK

• Department of Agriculture • Seed and plant producers • Department of Water Affairs and Forestry • VinPro Limited • Corteva Agriscience

Steps to success

• Use your social networks to meet people in the field. • Make use of unused land or your garden at home (first, seek permission as there are laws that prohibit the use of land without consent). • Learn to identify your skill, and take advantage of them. • Try cooperative farming. • Don't be afraid to try again if you fail at anything.