NQF Level 1 & 2

The purpose of this qualification is to allow new entrants' access to the Primary Agricultural Sector with specific reference to Plant Production. The contextualized purpose and usage of the qualification is as follows:

• A learner assessed against this qualification will have the necessary competence to participate as part of a working team, performing the agricultural processes as applicable to Plant production in a closely defined context and under close supervision.

• Competency will be gained in any of the specialized sub-fields of Plant Production as specified under Areas Of Specialization (i.e. Vegetables, Fruit Production, Hydroponics, etc.)

• The learner will be able to take responsible decisions within a limited range based on a sound understanding of the basic principles of agri-business and good agricultural practices, in meeting the set objectives and targets within the broader farm plan which includes the economical application of general resources, agricultural production and technical knowledge and skills, all in an Plant Production context.

• The Learner will be able to carry out repetitive procedures in a predictable environment and will be able to adhere to the relevant safety, quality, hygiene and technical standards as applicable within the industry.

• In addition to the above, the learner will be well positioned to extend learning and practice into other sub-fields such as Plant Production and Mixed Farming, since such efforts will only require additional learning within the elective scope of other qualifications at this level.

• The learner will be well positioned to progress towards higher levels of Management and Technical production practices as defined by qualifications at the next level.

• Learners will be enabled to actively participate in the Primary Agricultural Sector through the production of quality agricultural products, enhancing the overall agricultural process and gain opportunities to access local, national and international agricultural markets.

• Finally, this qualification will allow qualifying learners to become economically active in farming practices that will have a direct impact on Local Economic Development through the production of food, the improvement of household food security and access to mainstream agriculture.

Exit Level Outcomes are divided into five categories of competencies, namely:

• Fundamental Competencies

• Agri-business

• Agricultural Practices

• Plant Production; and

• Animal Production (This component has been included to ensure that Learners at this level is exposed to a small component of animal production)

Fundamental Competencies:

1. Apply various communication skills within the agricultural environment.

2. Apply mathematical calculations within the agricultural environment.

3. Safely and accurately collect routine agricultural data by applying prescribed methods of data collection for agricultural purposes.

4. Recognise the basic concepts of sustainable farming practices and be able to perform basic tasks in applying sustainable farming practices.

   Agri-business:

5. Keep record and report appropriately on inputs and resources in an agricultural environment.

6. Describe the production process in an agricultural environment.

7. Describe the importance of marketing within the agricultural production process.

8. Keep an accurate and current simple financial record keeping system in an agri-business environment.

9. Apply the basic principles of human resources management in an agricultural environment.

10. Understand the basic principles of enterprise selection and production.

    Agricultural Practices:

11. Apply sound food safety principles by identifying risk factors in food contamination and applying preventative measures to ensure product safety.

12. Observe and maintain basic water quality by working with the technical systems that control quality factors in water.

13. Incorporate an understanding of the role of natural resource management in sustainable agricultural practices into existing farming activities by applying basic practices to conserve the environment, including natural resources,

14. Carry out basic physical farm layout tasks including construction of rainwater harvesting and soil conservation structures in a small farm or garden environment

15. Operate, care for and store basic tools and equipment in a safe and responsible manner.

    Plant Production:

16. Demonstrate an elementary understanding of the parts of a plant and their basic functions.

17. Apply soil nutrient preparations in a safe, effective and responsible manner.

18. Assist with the propagation of plants.

19. Harvest agricultural crops by using basic harvesting tools.

20. Plant a range of crops according to correct placing, spacing and depth of the plant material.

21. Identify insects and explain the damage it can cause to crops.

22. Manipulate plants using pre-determined methods and techniques.

    Animal Production:

23. Produce livestock whilst demonstrating an understanding of the environment and its relationship to sustainable livestock production.