The National Diploma in Animal Production is an academic programme supported by practical hands-on modules, developed by the South African Agricultural Industry. The qualification focuses on the management of operational animal production skills, within the challenges of understanding the science of chemistry and physics, animal biology, business numeracy, communication and modern computer literacy.

The Programme allows students, that meet the entry requirements, to complete a practical two-year National Diploma in Animal Production. This qualification will enable qualifying students to actively participate in Primary Animal Production, including enhancing the overall agrarian process and gain opportunities to access local, national and international agricultural markets. Competency will be obtained in specialized sub-fields of Animal Production (i.e., small stock, large stock, dairy production and aqua culture) with an evenly strong focus on management and technical knowledge.

On completion of the National Diploma, students will be well positioned to extend learning and practice into other sub-fields such as Crop Production, Mixed Farming, and Farm Management. The National Diploma will also allow the student to enter the Bachelor of Agriculture Degree at the International Agricultural Academy for Africa by 2020.

Methodology

This National Diploma is presented as a blended study programme. This means that we will offer certain contact sessions in your region, where after you will then complete your theoretical studies through our online Agri-learn platform. This is done through own studies, reading and the online submission of assignments.

During the 2^nd Semester of each year, you will attend a 20-day practical workshop, whereby practical training will be offered in your specific field of study and final assessments will be concluded.

This is a full participatory learning programme, where you will also communicate with your co-students across the country on social media, Agri-social, and you can ask interesting quotations, or upload contributions in the format of articles, photos or videos on Agri-social.

Throughout the academic year, our lecturers will be available on our Agri-social platform, and can also be contacted via E-mail, SMS, WhatsApp, or direct telephonic contact.

We are making learning fun, exiting and interesting. Social media and Audio-visuals is the new future of learning.

Ideal for

• Junior farm managers who wish to progress to the level of farm manager
• Learners in possession of different levels of practical experience in farming operations, which will be assessed and RPL’ed* (Recognition of Prior Learning)
• School leavers (Grade 12)

*This qualification may be achieved in part or in whole through the recognition of prior learning. Credit will be given to learning, which has already been acquired, through the appropriate process of assessment. 

Skills and job options

You will develop, over the tenure of your studies, a critical understanding of agriculture in Africa in the modern era and working in a global economy. You will gain practical and relevant skills that will enable you to work in the animal production sectors in South Africa.

All course content is based and supported by the latest industry developments, and these best practices will allow to you to participate meaningfully in primary animal production.

Graduates will be able to enter the primary agricultural workplace and establish a thriving career through hard work and commitment.

Why i3A?

• SAQA accredited courses
• World class lectures and affiliated academics
• Custom-designed online Agricultural Campus that includes e-learning modules and an online encyclopaedia for lifelong support
• Practical training facilities