SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

National Certificate: Plant Production 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
49052  National Certificate: Plant Production 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Primary Agriculture 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
AgriSETA - Agriculture SETA  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
A learner assessed as competent against this qualification will have the necessary competence to supervise and lead a working team performing the agricultural processes as applicable to plant husbandry. Furthermore, the learner will be able to take responsible decisions 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. The learner will also be able to adhere to and implement according to the level of supervision as well as the relevant quality, safety and hygiene standards as applicable within the industry.

In addition they will be well positioned to extend their learning and practice into other areas of agricultural commodities within a context of either agronomy, or horticulture as applicable to the agricultural commodity, or to strive towards agricultural management standards and practice at higher levels.

Competent qualifying learners in this qualification will oversee the production of quality agricultural products whereby enhancing the overall agricultural process and gain opportunities to access local, national and international agricultural markets.


Rationale:

This qualification provides learners the opportunity to gain a qualification in Plant Production. The range of typical learners that will enter this qualification will vary and includes:
  • Farm operators who wish to progress to the level of supervisor within farming operations in Plant Production;
  • Farm owners, in possession of an equivalent qualification at NQF 2;
  • Learners in possession of different levels of practical experience in farming operations, which will be assessed and RPL'ed;
  • Possible candidates for promotion identified by the community as leaders.
  • Learners may come from both genders.

    The learner will engage in supervision and operational activities relevant to Plant Production.

    Requests and expressions of need for this qualification, coming from the broad, but also specific farming communities (Plant Production) forms the basis for the development of this qualification.

    This qualification will form the basis for learners to extend their learning into more specialised areas of plant production and provides the basis of the establishment of sustainable farming operations through the inclusion of a whide spectrum of competencies required by farmers in South Africa. Whilst technical production orientated competencies are ensured, other aspects such as agri-business and good agricultural practices are included in the range of competencies required by farmers in order to enable them to strive towards agricultural management standards and practices at higher levels.

    Competent qualifying learners in this qualification will oversee quality agricultural products in Plant Production whereby enhancing the overall agricultural process and gain opportunities to access local, national and international agricultural markets. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that a learner entering a programme leading to this qualification has achieved numeracy, literacy and communication equivalent to NQF 2 and technical skills pertaining to agricultural activities equivalent to NQF 2.


    Recognition of prior learning:

    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.

    For example:
  • Learners who have acquired skills and competencies in this qualification through for instance experience in the industry will be assessed against the unit standards the qualification comprises of prior to entering learning. Credits will be allocated to those unit standards and exit level outcomes in which the learner is found competent. The outstanding unit standards will then be sequenced according to an appropriate learning programme.
  • Should a new entrant into the industry wish to enter this learning programme, recognition will be given to al appropriate learning acquired through the schooling system.
  • In terms of fundamental unit standards, competencies could be acquired through life experience.

    Any learner wishing to be directly assessed may arrange to do so, without attending further training or education. The assessor and learner will decide together on the most appropriate assessment route to take. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamental
  • A minimum of 48 credits should be achieved in fundamental. All unit standards listed are compulsory.

    Core
  • 64 credits should be achieved in core.

    Elective
  • A minimum of 8 credits should be achieved in Elective, depending on the context of application of the unit standards. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Exit Level Outcomes are divided into four categories of competencies, namely:
  • Fundamental Competencies
  • Agri-business
  • Good Agricultural Practices
  • Plant Production

    Fundamental Competencies

    1. Communication.
    2. Maths Literacy.
    3. Recognise, interpret and report on a range of deviations during the data collection process.
    4. Incorporate basic concepts of sustainable farming systems into practical farm activities.

    Agri-business

    5. Maintain stores and agro-inputs in stores.
    6. Participate in the production planning process on a day-to-day basis.
    7. Apply the components of the marketing cycle in an alternative agricultural marketing environment.
    8. Determine viability of agri-business.
    9. Assist with the management of human resources in an agricultural environment.
    10. Interpret the factors influencing agricultural enterprises and enterprise selection and production, and of planning accordingly.

    Agricultural Practices

    11. Monitor and supervise the implementation of food safety and quality, production, environmental and social practices, and awareness within the agricultural supply chain.
    12. Apply the principles of water quality management and adjust systems to ensure appropriate levels of quality.
    13. Apply a routine maintenance and servicing plan.
    14. Monitor practices to conserve the environment, including natural resources whereby ensuring optimal utilization of national resources on the farm.
    15. Decide on appropriate land capability options for a given field.

    Plant Production

    16. Identify and describe the physiological processes and anatomical structures of a plant.
    17. Soil nutrient preparations are performed in a safe, effective and responsible manner for the benefit of plant/crop growth with consideration to the environment.
    18. Plants are propagated in a limited range of conditions
    19. Apply basic control measures for insects, plant diseases and common weeds.
    20. Monitor and co-ordinate the harvesting of crops.
    21. Monitor and supervise the manipulation of plants by applying a broad range of techniques. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Fundamental Competencies

    1.
  • Determined by selection.

    2.
  • Determined by selection.

    3.
  • Data is collected correctly.
  • Tools and equipment required for data collection is utilised correctly.
  • Data reports are submitted.

    4.
  • A sustainable farming system is defined and described.
  • The nature of a system is explained.
  • The balance of sustainability, productivity and conservation of resources is explained.
  • The sustainability of a whole farming system is monitored and re-evaluated.


    Agri-business

    5.
  • Orders are received.
  • Records are updated.
  • Stock levels are maintained.
  • Stock are issued.
  • Suppliers are evaluated.
  • Safety regulations are observed.

    6.
  • Production schedules are planned.
  • Production choices are explained.
  • The links between scheduling and financial planning is explained.
  • Different scheduling techniques are explained.

    7.
  • The managerial vision of the agribusiness is explained.
  • Alternative marketing environments are described.
  • The variables of the marketing cycle are explained.
  • Characteristics and critical success factors of marketing is explained.
  • The supply chain is modified according to the requirements of alternative markets.

    8.
  • Sources of income are identified and explained.
  • Costs are identified and explained.
  • Break-even budgets are developed.
  • Whole farm budgets are developed.
  • Financial outcomes are predicted.

    9.
  • HR rules, policies and procedures are applied.
  • Explain the role of stakeholders.
  • Contracts are interpreted and prepared.
  • Employment relations are explained in an agricultural context.

    10.
  • Requirements re natural resources and infrastructure for the selection of the relevant enterprise is recognized and interpreted.
  • Infrastructure for the selection of the enterprise is categorized.
  • Appropriate crops and/or animals for the relevant enterprise are determined.
  • The production procedures (including harvesting and post harvesting activities) are interpreted.


    Agricultural Practices

    11.
  • An understanding of the concept of traceability in the agricultural supply chain is demonstrated.
  • Non-conformances with respect to food safety, production, environmental, and social practices in the agricultural environment are reported.
  • Internal audits in the agricultural environment are explained.
  • Food safety and quality principles as related to the agricultural supply chain are applied.

    12.
  • Abnormalities in water quality are recorded and interpreted.
  • Environmental aspects of water quality management are explained.
  • Corrective actions are taken to ensure the appropriate quality.
  • Quality assurance systems are implemented and maintained.

    13.
  • Scheduling of routine maintenance is explained.
  • A service plan is implemented.
  • Maintenance procedures are applied.
  • Tools, equipment and machinery are maintained.

    14.
  • The elements of an ecosystem and a food chain are explained.
  • The occurrence of different types of fauna and flora and the sustainable utilisation thereof is monitored.
  • Soil maintenance and water management practices are monitored.
  • The energy cycle is explained.
  • A 2 dimentional map of the direct vicinity is interpreted.

    15.
  • Soil survey results and physical observation are interpreted and used in decision-making.
  • A land capability analysis to serve as the basis for appropriate enterprise selection for the farm is prepared.


    Plant Production

    16.
  • The basic functioning and structure of the plant cell.
  • The effects of the environment on the physiology and germination of seed is explained.
  • The anatomy and function of roots is explained.
  • The anatomy and physiology of the leaf is explained.
  • The anatomy and physiology of flowers and fruit are explained.

    17.
  • Soil nutrients are applied by using specialized equipment.
  • The collection of samples, storage and dispatch of samples to appropriate service providers is supervised.
  • The impact of the properties of soil on plant nutrition and soil preparation is explained.
  • Nutritional deficiencies in various crops are interpreted and remediation is suggested.

    18.
  • Environmental requirements for the propagation of plants are described.
  • General propagation procedures are demonstrated.
  • Environmental conditions are monitored correctly.
  • The appropriate tools and equipment are applied during propagation.

    19.
  • Common pests are identified and described.
  • Unfamiliar insects are collected.
  • Disease symptoms are described.
  • Incidence of weeds are reported.

    20.
  • The use of harvesting tools and equipment is explained.
  • Maturity indexing is explained.
  • Specific procedures for the harvesting of crops is explained.
  • Health, hygiene and safety plan is implemented.
  • Waste collection and disposal plan is implemented.
  • The care and maintenance of tools and harvesting equipment is described.

    21.
  • The use of appropriate tools / equipment is monitored.
  • Framework development as part of plant manipulation is monitored.
  • Flower and fruit manipulation is monitored.
  • Pruning as vegetative plant manipulation methods are monitored.

    NOTE: Assessment should be specific to the area of operation (i.e. Either horticulture or agronomy including but not limited to arable and/or dry land production)


    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show that they are able to integrate concepts, ideas and actions across unit standards to achieve competence that is relevant and coherent in relation to the purpose of the qualification.

    Integrated assessment must judge the quality of the observable performance, but also the quality of the thinking that lies behind it. Assessment tools must encourage learners to give an account of the thinking and decision-making that underpin their demonstrated performance. Some assessment practices will be of a more practical nature while others will be of a more theoretical nature. The ratio between action and interpretation is not fixed, but varies according to the type and level of qualification.

    A broad range of task-orientated and theoretical assessment tools may be used, with the distinction between practical knowledge and disciplinary knowledge maintained so that each takes its rightful place.


    Generic nature of the unit standards and the context of assessment:

    Because of the diverse nature of the primary agricultural sector, a generic approach to developing the unit standards has been adopted. This resulted in generic unit standards which should be contextualised within a specific area of operation, a specific agricultural commodity or specific agricultural system. Assessment therefore, should not be divorced from the context of application. All assessment tools, such as guides as well as the interpretation of unit standards and specifically range statements, should be contextualised within a specific agricultural commodity and/or system. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    In the case of the primary agricultural context it is difficult to compare the qualification and unit standards because of the vast differences in the level of mechanisation, the level of literacy of the farm operators, climate and other conditions as well as the variety in commodities.

    However, Nieu Zeeland and Australian qualifications and unit standards were sourced and evaluated for applicability. Also, during two separate study visits, agricultural practices were compared in the Netherlands and France.

    An example of the differences in plant production would be where climatic conditions require the production of different cultivars and markets require the production of different crops.

    However, there are similarities in terms of the floriculture and viticulture processes and unit standards. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    A learner will be able to progress horisontally from one category to another, namely horticulture, agronomy, hydroponics, etc. He/she will be able to do this without re-doing the whole qualification, but by only completing the necessary elective unit standards.

    This qualification builds on the relevant qualification on NQF 2 (refer to the SGB's brief and matrix) and gives access to the relevant qualification at NQF 4. In terms of competencies, the learner will progress from farming operation skills to basic managerial skills to managerial skills. The scope of practice will also increase.

    The learner will be able to articulate with other occupations within the agricultural pharmaceutical operations such as laboratory assistant, marketing and selling of agricultural pharmaceutical products and fertilisers. The learner will also be able to move to the secondary agricultural field. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this qualification must be registered as an assessor with the PAETA ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this qualification, or assessment against this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the PAETA ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the PAETA ETQA according to agreed ETQA procedures.

    Therefore anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution which is accredited by the PAETA ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors need:
  • A minimum of 2 (two) years' practical experience;
  • Practical experience in the specific agricultural commodity and/or system.
  • Competence in the generic assessor unit standards; and
  • Technical competence at, at least one NQF level above the assessee. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Areas of specialisation:

    Areas of specialisation of the qualification in Plant Production include but are not limited to:
  • Organic production,
  • Hydroponic production,
  • Perma-culture production,
  • Agronomy,
  • Horticulture,
  • Natural resources harvesting. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  116125  Apply crop protection and animal health products effectively and responsibly  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  116275  Apply routine maintenance and servicing plans and procedures  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116274  Assist in farm planning and layout for conservation and rainwater harvesting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116272  Demonstrate a basic understanding of the physiological functioning of the anatomical structures of the plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  116259  Explain application of marketing principles within an alternative and dynamic agricultural marketing environment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116237  Explain costing and the viability of an agri-business  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116257  Explain human resource policies and procedures  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116240  Explain store inputs categories, labeling and storage methods  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116218  Explain the planning and scheduling of tasks in a production environment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116220  Explain the propagation of plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  116214  Interpret factors influencing agricultural enterprises and plan accordingly  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116212  Maintain water quality parameters  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  116267  Manage soil fertility and plant nutrition  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  116268  Monitor and co-ordinate the harvesting of agricultural products  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  116271  Monitor and supervise a food safety and quality management system in the agricultural supply chain  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116263  Monitor natural resource management practices  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  116265  Monitor pests, diseases and weeds on crops  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  116264  Monitor plant manipulation  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  116266  Monitor the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Fundamental  8968  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9010  Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Fundamental  9013  Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Fundamental  116222  Incorporate basic concepts of sustainable farming systems into practical farm activities  Level 3  NQF Level 03  7 
    Fundamental  8969  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9012  Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  116269  Supervise the collection of agricultural data  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8973  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  7456  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8970  Write texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  116258  Communicate agri/ecotourism principles and concepts effectively and adapt to needs  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  116261  Introduction to organic certification and internal control systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  116262  Maintain and support sustainable wild flower harvesting practices  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  116221  Identify and apply permaculture principles  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  116314  Produce crop in a hydroponic system  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. 2Tablets Community Development 
    2. Akanyang Trading and Services 
    3. Avheani Trading and Projects 
    4. BESTGUARD SECURITY SERVICES PTY LTD 
    5. BHEKA PHAMBILI TRADING 132 
    6. Brazelinx Pty Ltd 
    7. Chloe Nkanyezi Solutions Pty Ltd 
    8. Classy Lifeskill Centre 
    9. College of Transport Logistics (Pty) Ltd 
    10. Durban City College 
    11. Dzindou Consulting Services 
    12. Eastern Cape Farmers Poultry Association 
    13. EPR Holdings Pty Ltd 
    14. Flawless Ideas Institute 
    15. Funzani Training Consultants 
    16. GCINA HUMAN POTENTIAL PTY LTD 
    17. Get Equipped Training Academy Pty Ltd 
    18. Goshen Enterpreneurship Hub Pty Ltd 
    19. Greenworld Environmental and Consulting Services 
    20. JJ AND MIMS LOGISTICS 
    21. KNM Africa Group 
    22. Kwem Management Solutions 
    23. Linon Manufacturing Pty Ltd 
    24. Loksion Holdings Pty Ltd 
    25. MGSM Solutions Pty Ltd 
    26. Mncobela Trading Enterprise Pty Ltd 
    27. Mo Pro Solution 
    28. Molapisane General Projects 
    29. Mosadikago Trading Centre 
    30. Nashclo Pty Ltd 
    31. Ndizanathi Projects 
    32. Ngunezi Consultancy Training and Development 
    33. Ngunikazi Concepts Pty Ltd 
    34. NKHULULEKO PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD 
    35. Nkosana Development Consulting (Pty) Ltd 
    36. Ntsako Mawila Holding Pty Ltd 
    37. Nyankwavi Investment CC. 
    38. Phaphamang Environmental Organisation 
    39. Phusha Phanda Poi Consulting 
    40. Potego Farming College Pty Ltd 
    41. Potential African Future Farmers 
    42. Pro Agric Solutions Pty Ltd 
    43. Quedo Farm Practices Pty Ltd 
    44. Rain Queen Holdings 
    45. Revolutionizing Enterprises in Africa 
    46. RZH Trading and Projects 13 cc 
    47. Sange SA 
    48. Seako Training Academy 
    49. Sibodibo Trading Enterprise 
    50. Think n Think Group Pty Ltd 
    51. Top Star Distributors and Consultancy 
    52. TSS TRAININGS 
    53. Umlozi Skills Centre (Pty) Ltd 
    54. Umshini Consultancy Vaal Pty Ltd 
    55. Univen Continuing Education Pty Ltd 
    56. Velenkosini Multiskills and Catering 
    57. Viwe Development Council NPO 
    58. Zala Gusha Trading Enterprise Pty Ltd 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.