| Umzimvubu
Goats NQF 1 Animal Production Training
Most of the ± 3000 goat producers registered as contract growers
of the Umzimvubu Goat Project are using traditional farming
methods. Though effective and advantageous for naturally
produced goat meat products these methods need to be augmented
with modern-day farming technology and information, especially
as it relates to animal health, identification of farm animals,
record-keeping and animal processing treatments amongst others.
Communication, math literacy and agri-business competencies are
also necessary to run a profitable and sustainable farming
business.
To this effect 150 learners, drawn from the six district
co-operatives of Umzimvubu Goats, were included in an NQF 1:
Farming as an Own Business Learnership in 2004. However, further
skills development was needed to fast-track the extension of
technology to the contract growers. The 2007 NQF 1 Animal
Production (Small Stock) Learnership was the result. Initially
12 learners were selected from the Mt Frere, Maluti, Mt Fletcher
and Mt Ayliff District co-operatives and were registered for
this learnership. Seven of them completed the learning program
successfully and will receive their AgriSETA National
Certificates at a graduation ceremony that will be arranged with
Umzimvubu Goats, AgriSETA and the Alfred Nzo District
Municipality.
Among the most interesting points, the learners made visits for
practical learning to several farms including, the Kokstad
Research Station, Capricorn Dairy, Mr. Gabela’s farm and
Umzimvubu Goats central facility and abattoir. As part of the
training package each learner received a tool kit which included
a hanging scale, tattoo pliers, hoof trimmers, 100 x 5ml
syringes, 100 needles, a dosing gun, ear-tag applicators, ear
tags, ear tag marking pens, castrating pliers and castrating
rings.
Arrangements are being made for these learners to service the
technological needs of the contract goat producers under the
management, supervision and agreement with Umzimvubu Goats.
|
