UNISA Short Course in the Introduction to Agribusiness Management

UNISA Short Course in the Introduction to Agribusiness Management

University of South Africa Short Course in the Introduction to Agribusiness Management

The “Introduction to Agribusiness Management” course at UNISA is specifically tailored for managers of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the agricultural sector who lack formal academic training in this field. Here’s a summary of the course details:

Course Overview

Duration: Six months

Language Medium: English

Target Group: Managers of SMMEs in the agricultural sector without formal academic training in agribusiness management. It particularly aims to assist previously disadvantaged individuals and beginners in these businesses.

Admission Requirements

Educational Qualification: Senior Certificate or an equivalent NQF level 4 qualification.

Registration Periods

First Semester: 28 November to 25 January.

Second Semester: Aligns with UNISA’s second semester registration dates. More information is available at UNISA CAES.

Course Leadership

Course Leader: Dr DL Mthombeni, Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, Block B, Office 333, Unisa Science campus. Contact at Tel: 011 471 2131, Email: mthomdl@unisa.ac.za.

Programme Administrator: Admin Officer, Unisa Centre for Lifelong Learning, 360 Lillian Ngoyi Street, Pretoria Central, Solomon Mahlangu Building 2nd floor. Contact at Tel: 012 352 4288, Email: UCL@unisa.ac.za.

Application Process

Application Link: UNISA Apply SLP.

Purpose Statement

The course is designed to expand the knowledge of managers and beginners in the agribusiness sector, helping them adapt to the fast-changing discipline of agribusiness management.

Course Module: SCIAM01 – Introduction to Agribusiness Management

Content

• Understanding the concept and framework of agribusiness management and its objectives.
• Learning about financial statements in the respective agribusinesses of the participants or in simulated agribusinesses.
• Analyzing financial statements.
• Creating agribusiness budgets.
• Exploring sources and procedures for credit application in South Africa.
• Applying for credit for the agribusinesses identified by the students.

This course offers a practical and theoretical foundation in agribusiness management, equipping participants with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively manage and grow their agricultural enterprises. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking to develop a deeper understanding of financial management within the context of agribusiness.

Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) offer a focused and efficient way to develop skills and knowledge in specific subject areas. These non-degree programs are designed to be practical and introductory, catering to those looking to update or broaden their expertise quickly. Here’s a comprehensive summary of what these programmes entail:

Purpose of SLPs

Designed for Skill and Knowledge Development: SLPs are structured to quickly enhance practical skills and fundamental knowledge in a specific field.

“Just Enough” Learning Approach: Tailored to meet specific learning needs or employment requirements.

Non-Degree Programmes: These are introductory and practical courses that do not lead to a degree.

Programme Administration

Administered by: The Centre for Lifelong Learning.

Located Within: Different academic departments of Unisa’s colleges.

Registration and Application Details

Registration Criteria: Detailed on the Unisa Centre for Lifelong Learning website: Unisa Centre for Lifelong Learning.

Application Process: Must apply online for all Short Learning Programmes.

No Application Fee: There is no fee when applying for Short Learning Programmes.

Document Requirements: Applicants must upload necessary documents such as school qualifications, ID documents, and any other required documents for specific programmes.

Who Should Apply?

First-time Unisa applicants.

Current Unisa students switching to a new SLP.

Applicants who previously applied but were not offered a space.

Application Considerations

Maximum Programmes: Applicants may apply for up to two programmes but can register for only one if both applications are successful.

Application Follow-up: Unisa will inform applicants of the outcome and the course they have been accepted for.

After Application

Assessment: Unisa will assess the application and inform about the outcome.

Temporary Registration: If successful, Unisa will carry out a temporary registration.

Registration Activation: A fee, indicated in the “Temporarily Registered” letter, needs to be paid to activate the registration.

Technical Requirements for Receiving Communication

• Applicants must have a valid email address and cellphone number.
• Unisa communicates primarily through the myLife email account.
• Technical assistance is available for viewing the “Temporarily Registered” letter.

Contact Information

• For inquiries: Email Unisa Centre for Lifelong Learning.
• For registration-related issues: Email Unisa Registration Queries.

These Short Learning Programmes are an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to gain new skills or update their knowledge in a specific field in a concise and focused manner, without the commitment of a full degree program.