1. Introduction to Crop Production (CPD 1101)
This unit introduces learners to the fundamental principles of crop production, including the role of crops in food security, economic development, and agro-industry. It covers crop classification, growth requirements, basic crop physiology, and the factors influencing crop productivity. Students gain a foundation that prepares them for advanced learning in agronomy, crop protection, and farm management.
2. Principles of Agronomy (CPD 1102)
This unit focuses on the scientific principles and practices that guide successful crop management. Learners study soil–plant relationships, seedbed preparation, planting methods, crop growth stages, cultural practices, and environmental influences on crop performance. Emphasis is placed on sustainable and climate-smart agronomic practices.
3. Soil Science and Fertility Management (CPD 1103)
This course introduces the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil and their relevance to crop growth. Students learn soil sampling, nutrient diagnosis, fertilizer types, application methods, and soil conservation techniques. The unit equips learners with skills for maintaining soil health and improving crop yields.
4. Crop Protection (CPD 1104)
This unit explores crop pests, diseases, weeds, and the integrated methods used to manage them. Learners gain skills in identifying common crop enemies, using preventive and curative measures, and applying Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques safely and effectively.
5. Horticultural Crop Production (CPD 1201)
Learners are introduced to the production of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals. The unit covers site selection, nursery techniques, propagation, crop management, irrigation, harvesting, and postharvest handling of horticultural crops. Emphasis is placed on market-oriented horticulture and quality assurance.
6. Field Crop Production (CPD 1202)
This unit covers the production of major field crops such as cereals, pulses, oil crops, and industrial crops. Students study crop ecology, production cycles, field operations, and management practices that maximize yield. The unit promotes commercial crop production, value addition, and enterprise sustainability.
7. Seed Technology (CPD 1203)
This unit equips learners with knowledge and skills related to seed production, processing, certification, storage, and quality testing. Topics include seed laws, purity, viability, and seed handling in commercial enterprises. Learners understand the importance of high-quality seeds in modern crop production.
8. Irrigation and Water Management (CPD 2101)
This course introduces the principles and methods of irrigation, water sourcing, and on-farm water management. Students learn irrigation scheduling, system maintenance, water-use efficiency, and the role of irrigation in climate-resilient agriculture.
9. Farm Management and Record Keeping (CPD 2102)
Learners acquire knowledge on planning, organizing, and managing crop enterprises. The unit covers budgeting, farm records, input management, cost analysis, and decision-making. It strengthens students’ capacity to run profitable crop production ventures.
10. Postharvest Technology (CPD 2103)
This unit addresses the handling, processing, storage, and marketing of crop products after harvest. Learners study spoilage factors, preservation methods, packaging, and value addition techniques to reduce losses and improve product quality.
11. Agricultural Extension and Communication (CPD 2201)
Students are introduced to principles of extension, communication techniques, farmer training approaches, and dissemination of agricultural innovations. The unit prepares learners for community outreach and advisory roles.
12. Agribusiness and Crop Marketing (CPD 2202)
This unit covers entrepreneurship, value chain analysis, market structures, pricing, and marketing strategies for crop enterprises. Learners develop skills for operating crop-based businesses and linking farmers to profitable markets.
- Teacher: collins mukhwana