How To Become A Farmer In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Filed in Article by on May 5, 2021 0 Comments

Are you looking for a way to become a Farmer in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become a Farmer in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does A Farmer Do?

Farmers operate establishments that produce crops, livestock and dairy products. They harvest and sell their goods to produce markets and food companies both nationally and internationally.

Farmers typically work long days, and some of the work can be physically strenuous. These professionals work outdoors with their hands in most kinds of weather.

Farmers typically do the following:

  • Effectively communicate with workers
  • Supervise all steps of the crop production and ranging process
  • Analyse livestock and land quality
  • Select and purchase supplies, such as seed, fertilizers and farm machinery
  • Operate and maintain complex agricultural machines
  • Adapt duties to the seasons, weather conditions or a crop’s growing cycle
  • Maintain farm facilities, such as water pipes, hoses, fences and animal shelters
  • Serve as the sales agent for livestock, crops and dairy products
  • Record financial, tax, production and employee information.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

Primarily, farmers are trained through hands-on experience and are not required to do tertiary studies. However, degrees and diplomas in farming or agriculture are available, and are an advantage when looking for a position in the field.

Aspiring farmers can learn through apprenticeships or by being supervised and trained by experienced farmers. Experience of working on a farm, for example from a weekend or holiday job, dairy work or crop picking would be useful.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Mathematics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Life Sciences
  • Geography
  • Accounting
  • Agricultural Sciences

Where Can I Study?

Elsenburg – Cape Institute for Agricultural Training

University of Stellenbosch

  • Bachelor of Science: Agriculture or Animal Production Systems
  • www.sun.ac.za

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute

  • National Diploma: Agriculture and Various Courses: Small and Large Animal Production
  • www.gadi.agric.za

Mangosothu University of Technology

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