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AGRICULTURE: MY CAREER MY CHOICE!

2015

AGRICULTURE- MY CAREER OF CHOICE

-A GUIDE BOOK -

EDULINK PROJECT FED/ 2013/320-148

“This publication has been produced with the assistance of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of Kenyatta

University and the partners and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the ACP Group of States or the European Union.”

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Why study agriculture?

Agriculture is the career that transforms lives and empowers people. It improves livelihoods

through providing a sustainable source of income through employment and entrepreneurship.

Agriculture is 4 times more effective in reducing poverty through providing healthy food for the

masses so they can be productive. There is sustainable future for agriculture because people will

always have need for food and the raw materials that agriculture provides. You would be

interested to know that nearly all products have agricultural origin from paper to the leather seats

of automobiles. Agriculture is cool and hence needs young brain power (use of ICT, smart

agriculture and cutting edge technologies). Agriculture is supreme in nature and should be

carried as such with many students in developing countries striving to get agriculture courses.

Therefore, eliminate the misconception that agriculture is a lower class career.

( (Ref: Agriohio.org, metro.co.uk)

For more information on why agriculture in the coolest course to study, look up the following

links.http://beefmagazine.com/blog/help-wanted-8-reasons-pursue-career-agriculture

http://www.ypard.net/news/five-reasons-why-youth-should-choose-agriculture

http://www.ypard.net/news/fight-hunger-inspire-youth

Who should study agriculture?

Agriculture should be studied by people who have a passion for development. Background in

science and interest is important because it provides a solid foundation. People interested in

change and a dynamic career such as agriculture which evolves continuously from hunter-

gatherer to computer/technology/ICT savvy farmers. In addition those ready to invest in

agriculture, working in the agricultural sector and want to advance their careers. Agriculture is

becoming increasingly knowledge driven thus extension providers and community workers need

to study agriculture.

Contribution of agriculture to society

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Agriculture is the greatest contributor to the economy contributing more than 27% of the total

GDP (2015 estimates). Agriculture is present in virtually all sectors of the economy. Other key

contributions include poverty alleviation, improvement of livelihoods, nutrition enhancement,

source of income, food security, social harmony, employment both self and formal, research,

capacity empowerment, source of raw materials for industries, market for industrial products

(inputs and machinery), aesthetic value and source of forex & revenue.

What makes agriculture attractive?

Opportunities to travel the world-beginning when studying in the university, agriculture offer

numerous opportunities to visit farms in different parts of the country. In addition there are other

opportunities either through research, conferences, symposia, trade fairs and other when you can

have the opportunity to visit other parts of the world to learn more on agriculture.

Being your own „boss‟-in agriculture if you have your own farm or enterprise, then you are your

own supervisor. You do not have to wake up in the morning and report to anyone. You report to

your blossoming crops, fragrant flowers and beautiful animals!

Hands-on career-agriculture is a career that involve touching the soil, splashing with water,

feeling the animals and in general being one with nature. This is a career that you participate in

actively as opposed to spending your life seated in front of a computer. This is a career that

keeps your body and soul fit due to its active engaging nature.

Self spiritual fulfillment-agriculture has a spiritual dimension, a form of inner contentment.

When you plant a seed and watch it grow to maturity, it‘s as fulfilling as a mother observing a

kid grow to adulthood.

Agriculture is the future of development-Agriculture is up to four times more effective than

other sectors in reducing poverty. Increasingly, the world is counting on agriculture to produce

more nutritious food for — and improve the livelihoods of — a booming population, especially

the poor. What could be more meaningful than being part of a proven solution to such a critical

challenge?

Agriculture is not cool? Think again-Agriculture has an image problem. Simply put, for the

majority of the world‘s youth, agriculture simply isn‘t seen as being ―cool‖ or attractive. Most

think of it only as back-breaking labor, without an economic pay-off — and little room for career

advancement. In Uganda, a young team with the World Bank and UNICEF used a mobile and

web-based app called ―U-Report‖ to swiftly help 190,000 farmers save their bananas — a staple

food for Ugandans — from a vicious disease. Countries like Kenya and Rwanda are also eager to

boost productivity through information and communication technologies and other creative

solutions. Agriculture in the developing world has become a field vibrant with effective

innovations, thanks to a growing number of young techie minds that make it happen.

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Agricultural research needs young brainpower-If you are a ―young nerd‖ into development

research, agriculture may be the right place for you. Numerous stories from East Africa and other

places have shown that research revolutionizes agriculture and transforms livelihoods. Today,

more than before, climate change and a growing demand for nutritious food are for fresh ideas

and renewed knowledge to explore ICT in agriculture, foster climate-smart agriculture and

innovate in the sector to power future growth.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN AGRICULTURE

This year, 2015 is the year of soil! The key objective of these celebrations include to educate the

public about the crucial role soil plays in food security, climate change adaptation and

mitigation, essential ecosystem services, poverty alleviation and sustainable development. All

these activities are geared towards improving agriculture in general. Agriculture is so important

and vital to the surval of living organisms on earth. Just imagine the element of daily food

consumption, the variety of food which takes effort and knowledge to produce, the diverse

chains and movement involved in transportation of food from the farm to the final destination;

all this is agriculture.

Thinking about a career in agriculture? No? You should be! Consider this: nearly every industry

is connected to the field of agriculture. How, you may ask, is automobile manufacturing related

to agriculture? Actually, in many ways, but one obvious example is what you sit on in the car.

Your seat is probably made from either cloth or leather which are both derivatives of the

agricultural industry. You may now be thinking, "Yes, but what about the computer I'm reading

this on – the technology industry certainly couldn't be related in any way to agriculture". Ever

heard of soy ink? That's right, more and more manufactures are using environmentally friendly

ink derived from soybeans in their printer cartridges. And, of course, the paper on which it is

printing is also an important product from the agricultural field.

When you think of a career in agriculture, what's the first thing that pops into your head –a

picture of an old farmer with a jembe and panga? Well, think again. Today, farming is high tech,

big business, and most careers in agriculture are actually either business or science related.

Career prospects in Agriculture go well beyond planting crops and raising animals in a farm. If

you love the idea of working with crops, animals and resources that contribute to the worldwide

food supply, pursuing a career in agriculture could provide you with a rewarding and fulfilling

future.

Agriculture is big business and is everywhere! The industry has been around for thousands of

years.

That's why you should take some time to investigate the countless exciting career opportunities

that the agricultural industry has to offer including the following:

1. Plant Science (agronomy, horticulture, soils, breeding, seed production, weed science,

plant biotechnology)

Agronomy deals with soil management and crop production. Most upper level positions within

this field require an advanced degree in agriculture, biology or genetics, but there are some

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positions (particularly those in sales) that may require only a diploma and experience within the

field. Opportunities include: Crop specialist, Soil scientist, Agrochemical sales representative,

Plant breeder, Soil conservationist, seed production/propagation and marketing specialist, among

others.

2. Animal Sciences

If you love working with livestock like pigs, cattle, goats, sheep or poultry, you may want to

look into careers within animal sciences. These individuals may help with the care of animals or

they may take on more scientific roles as large animal veterinarians or animal geneticists.

Consider the following job possibilities: Livestock production manager, Feed sales, Veterinarian,

Farm management, animal nutritionist, etc.

3. Agricultural Economics and agribusiness

Someone has to price, broker and assess the agricultural economy from day to day and year to

year. The fact is that the agricultural economy can be greatly affected by issues like drought,

flood and outbreaks of food borne illness. It's the role of the agricultural economist to address

these issues. Common job titles include: Agricultural economist, Resource economist consultant,

Agricultural policy analyst. These fields have wide application in universities, research

institutions, banks, marketing companies, NGOs, among others. Agricultural economists are few

and among the most sort after professionals.

4. Agricultural Education and Extension

Someone has to teach growers/producers, marketers and others how to excel in what they do.

Agricultural education specialists play key roles in knowledge and skills transfer from those in

research to those who apply the knowledge. These are mostly field based careers, so there you

are if you love adventure and outdoor activity. While you may think teachers only exist within

high school and college settings, many large agricultural organizations also employ agriculture

lecturers and professors. Common jobs include: Agriculture professor, Farm management

trainer, Soil conservationist expert, Extension officer.

5. Agricultural Engineering

One area of agriculture that requires an advanced degree within a field of engineering is

agricultural engineering. Agriculture requires the extensive use of machinery, buildings, water

lines and waste management, processing, energy management, all which require expert

knowledge to keep the food supply safe. Consider the following opportunities: Irrigation

engineer, Organic waste specialist, Food engineer, Bioprocessing engineer, Machine design

engineer, among others.

6. Community Service

There are great opportunities to work with the community mainly through non-governmental

organizations or community based organizations. Agriculture is among the key activities

contributing to the welfare of communities; therefore those working in development work must

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understand agriculture systems. Aside from agriculture, you need complimentary skills in rural

development, sociology or other such areas. There are very good career prospects with highly

attractive incentives in community service.

7. Research

Agriculture is an intensely research driven field of specialization. New knowledge and

technology has to be generated continuously through research to address the numerous

challenges encountered from time to time. A lot of funding is provided each year to persons

working in research to find solutions to the numerous problems facing growers,, processors,

marketers, etc. Some of the most interesting careers in agriculture are in research. Research also

provides great opportunities to travel around the world working in collaboration with scientists in

other countries or presenting your research findings in conferences and other forums. There are

many research organizations, local, regional and international that conduct agricultural research.

Opportunities include Research Assistant, Research Associate, Research Administrators,

Scientists or Technical Experts. Advanced qualifications are necessary to get the best positions.

Kenyans are recognized worldwide for their great expertise and they can be found working in all

corners of the world in diverse institutions. Prominent research organizations institutions in

Kenya include International Center for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Kenya

Agricultural Research and Livestock Organization (KARLO), International Livestock Research

Institute (ILIRI), World Agroforestry Center and Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)

among others.

8. Entrepreneurship

This is an area that involves promoting and marketing the products of major agricultural firms

and companies. Individuals involved in agricultural communications often work as marketers,

public relations experts or journalists. Common job titles include: Market news reporter, Farm

news reporter and Regional sales manager.

While most of these positions will require some knowledge in business, journalism or a related

field, you will have added advantage if you have a degree in Agriculture.

The agricultural sector offers countless opportunities to engage into self income generating

activities. There lucrative prospects for example in greenhouse farming, brokerage of farm

produce or in processing of agricultural goods. This is the only sector with readily available

market. After all man lives to eat!

9. Finance and Banking

If you love working with money and you are interested in agriculture, career opportunities in

agricultural finance may be something to pursue. You could develop a career in banking, e.g.

handling loans for farmers and agricultural institutions, conducting research in agricultural real

estate, or working to sell a service/product. You could be a CEO of a company, the chief

financial accountant (CFO), farm accountant, auditor, credit analyst and such.

EXEMPLARLY SUCCESS CASES IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

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Kevian foods Ltd

Kevian food s founded by Mr. Kimani Rugendo after quitting politics is a Kenyan drinks

company that has been producing water and the popular natural fruit juice beverages since 1992.

The company produces the popular Afia and ‗Pick N Peel‘ fresh juices. Kevian‘s first product

was bottled drinking water – Mt Kenya. The company mainly targeted Mombasa tourist hotels as

its main market with limited supply of the product to a few restaurants and supermarkets in

Nairobi. At the time, mineral water was not yet popular with consumers in the city. In 1999, the

company started the fruit juice company. The former politician‘s business empire is following a

path carved by Coca Cola and beer maker EABL, who were the first to produce non-alcoholic

malt drinks locally.

Dominion farms Ltd

Dominion Farms Limited is an American-owned, Kenyan-registered company that operates a

modern, irrigated farm on a 17,000-acre leasehold in western Kenya. The company‘s products

include long-grain rice, tilapia fish, rotation crops and a number of by-products related to those

crops. By virtue of its remote location, the farm is highly vertically integrated and relies upon

crop by-products for much of its fertilizer and animal feed. Dominion‘s dam on the Yala River

forms a 1,100-acre water storage reservoir for commercial and local domestic uses and also

serves as a source of energy for a hydro-electric plant now under construction. A major canal

carries oxygen-rich water directly to Lake Kanyanboli in order to recharge this important source

of domestic water that was previously in decline due to stagnation. Dominion‘s Prime Harvest

Rice and Tilapia are recognized for their high quality and freshness.

RealIPM-Thika

The Real IPM Company Ltd founded in 2003 by owners Louise Labuschagne and Dr Henry

Wainwright employs more than 228 staff. The company designs integrated pest management

programs for growers in Kenya. It also offers crop protection solutions to reduce chemical

inputs, as well as increase the yield and quality of fruit, flowers, and vegetables. In addition, the

company produces strategic biological control agents, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, Encarsia

formosa, Amblyseius cucumeris, Trichoderma asperellum, Bacillus subtillis, Metarhizium

anisopliae and holistic IPM programs to combat pests and diseases in various crops. Further, it

offers consultancy services, including strategic planning for pesticide reduction, bioprospecting,

IPM and organic programs development, and increasing biodiversity on the farm. Furthermore,

the company offers training and consultancy programs to enable companies to conserve local

natural enemies in order to replace pesticide use; and practical training programs in commercial

insect rearing and follow-up support areas. It serves growers of melons in Brazil, roses in

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Ecuador, pineapples in Ghana, fine beans in Madagascar, and tomatoes in South Africa. The

company is based in Thika, Kenya.

Mkulima Young: “Young farmers helping young farmers”

Mkulima Young was founded in January 2013 as a community-based Facebook page. It has

grown into a social media platform which engages Kenyan youth in agriculture via the internet

and radio. More than 26,000 people have liked its Facebook page, and it recently added Twitter

and YouTube to its social media arsenal as it reaches out to rural and urban youth in Kenya.

More information is available on the link: http://weekly.farmradio.org/2014/01/20/kenya-

successful-young-entrepreneurs-attracted-to-farming-by-social-media-by-adam-bemma-for-

farm-radio-weekly/.

Mwea Aquafish Farm

Mwea Aquafish Farm located in Kirinyaga County is a ―Model Fish Farm‖ where Nile tilapia

(Oreochromis niloticus) and African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) are raised in earthen liner

ponds and concrete tanks. It began in August 2009 on 3.5 hectares of agricultural land. Farming

fish here is practiced on 29 earthen/static ponds with well-laid liners. In addition, there are eight

beehive 20m2 re-circulating tanks for tilapia. Most ponds (measuring 300 m

2) are constructed on

sandy/loam/clay soils. The farm has a two-bed room permanent guesthouse, two offices, a large

classroom with a capacity to sit up to 40 fish farmers/students and a large feed store.

Some fish ponds in the farm

Githunguri Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society

Githunguri Dairy Farmers Co-operative Society has revolutionized the Kenyan dairy industry

since its inception in 1961 by 31 farmers. Today (2015), the co-operative has about 17,000

members, and its collection centres have expanded from 1 to 68.The society specializes in dairy

products. With production of about 170,000 litres of milk a day, Githunguri is Kenya‘s third

biggest dairy firm. The Fresha brand of products - including yoghurt, butter, ghee and cream –

are major products in the Kenyan market.

Brookside Dairy Limited

Brookside Dairy Limited, often referred to as Brookside Dairies, is a dairy processing company

in Kenya, the largest economy in the East African Community. The company has a gross

turnover of $176 million (2014). Brookside Dairies is the largest milk processing company in

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Kenya, where it controls 38 percent of the dairy market, as at August 2015. The company's

products are distributed in the East African countries of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Amboni Farm

Amboni Farm in Mweiga is a dairy breeding farm owned by Chris Murungaru a retired politician

and former minister in the government of Kenya. By making use of modern technology, Amboni

Farm currently boasts among the best stock one can find anywhere in the world. Olivia, a prized

cow for instance, produces between 40 and 50 liters of milk a day. For most dairy farmers,

getting 15 liters a day from a cow is considered quite an achievement. Buying Olivia would

require one to part with something in the region of Sh250,000. From the superior stock, Amboni

Farm supplies semen to local research stations such as Kabete and to farms in countries like

Zambia, Malawi, USA, Canada and New Zealand, among others. Dr. Murungaru is a pharmacist

by profession.

Olivado Kenya (EPZ) Ltd

Olivado Natural Nutrition is a New Zealand based company producing premium quality extra

virgin cold pressed avocado oil. The company brought its mobile processing plant to Kenya in

2007, establishing a pilot programme to test the viability of the project. The processing company

is situated at Sagana in Murang‘a County. The company has contracted several hundred farmers

to supply it with fresh avocados. Olivado Kenya (EPZ) Ltd gained organic and fair trade status in

2008, achieving this within the remarkably short period of seven months. The success of this

pilot programme in Kenya provides tangible evidence of what can be achieved in a developing

country. As a result, over 570 small farmers in Kenya‘s central highlands have been certified as

having organic and fair trade status. Olivado‘s field teams work with the farmers, mapping the

farms and their crops and ensuring that organic practices are followed, and there will be an

ongoing process of monitoring the farmers to ensure that the organic requirements are met.

Olivado was founded in 2000 by a professional chef, who realized that the oil of avocados could

be extracted and made into an-ultra healthy and delicious edible oil. Working with a team of

food scientists at Massey University under a New Zealand Horticultural grant, he pioneered and

perfected the process of oil extraction from the avocado. The proprietary process they developed

is used exclusively in Olivado‘s factories. No other company can produce avocado oil in the

same manner with the quality and shelf life of Olivado extra virgin Avocado Oil.

Since its inception Olivado has grown to become the world‘s leading brand of extra virgin

avocado oil, with distribution in the UK, Europe, and USA as well as New Zealand, Australia

and Asia.

Meru Greens Horticulture Limited

Meru Greens Horticulture Ltd with turnover of Ksh 200 million is a private service provider

company formed in the year 1996 with the sole objective of organizing smallholder farmers to

produce and market fruits and vegetables, both in the domestic and export markets. The company

owned by two partners (Gerald & Rosemary) enjoys the experience they attained in agriculture

extension skills they achieved when working for the Government of Kenya. The main focus

production base is in the larger Meru and Embu County.

Meru Greens Horticulture believes that empowering smallholder farmers to be able to produce

fruits and vegetables responsibly would spur their own development and sustainable agriculture

across board. Hence, Meru Greens Horticulture focus on promoting initiatives that bring about

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food safety, improve quality and volumes. Additionally the company focuses on creating growth

through partnerships and cooperation, developing synergies and allowing talent to flourish in the

global fruit and vegetable industry. With a company history stretching back over 15 years

supported by over 300 staff, Meru Greens specializes in producing, sourcing supplying and

trading in the country fresh fruits and vegetables hence providing an integrated supply chain

from the grower source to all market segments and customers globally.

A trainer from Meru Greens addressing farmers during a ‘baraza’ meeting

Agripro Leasing Kenya

Agripro Leasing kenya offers wide range of services and assistance to clients. The company

lease out Agricultural lands, Agricultural Machinery and offer monitoring services to farmers.

Agripro Leasing also assists in Land buying and selling services.

Eric Muthomi (Founder, Stawi Foods & Fruits)

Stawi Foods and Fruits Limited owned by a 26 year old law graduate is an award winning food

processing business based in Nairobi, Kenya. The business is primarily involved in milling of

nutritious porridge flours that are sold in the Kenyan market. Stawi began as a banana flour

processing business in 2011 where it processed and packed banana flour for sale to national

supermarkets. The company later diversified its products to offer two new instant fortified

porridge flours (Nurture Junior and Nurture Family). Stawi Foods is making an effort to

reconnect society, and provide genuine benefit to surrounding communities. In providing a major

buying culture change through bypassing middlemen, Stawi has called time on the model where

middlemen served their own interests leaving farmers exploited and poor.

Due to his innovative ideas, Stawi was featured on CNN in January 2014 as a promising

company that is impacting smallholder farmers in Kenya and creating jobs for youth. Stawi has

also won several awards including Top 30 under 30: Africa‘s best young entrepreneurs, Forbes

Africa, February 2013; National winner in Nature Challenge Africa, World Wide Fund for

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Nature, December 2011, Nairobi; National winner of Jitihada (two) National Business Plan

Competition 2012, Kenya Institute of Management, June 2012, Nairobi and Winner in the

Enablis Business Plan Competition 2011, by Enablis East Africa, October 2011, Nairobi.

Selected products from Stawi Foods & Fruits

Affiong Williams (Founder, Reelfruit)

ReelFruit, founded, in March, 2012 by a 29 year old Affiong Williams is an emerging fruit

processing company focused on packaging and branding and processing of locally, and quality

fruit products. The first product is a range of dried fruit snacks and nuts. The products are

currently stocked in over 80 stores in Nigeria. ReelFruit is an award-winning brand, winning

both an international Women in Business Competition in the Netherlands, as well as an SME

exhibition (Creative Focus Africa) in Lagos, Nigeria and Top 30 under 30: Africa‘s best young

entrepreneurs.

Williams is trying to expand her nut business into the lucrative airline market. She is raising

capital to build a factory on the outskirts of Lagos next year. ―I hope to be on the cover of Forbes

Africa in five years‘ time,‖ she says.

Selected products from Reelfruit

Del Monte Kenya

Cirio Del Monte Kenya Limited with total revenue of Ksh. 4.5billion (2011 estimate) is a

Kenyan food processing company that operates in the cultivation, production, and canning of

pineapple products. The company produces canned solid pineapple, juice concentrates, mill juice

sugar and cattle feed. Kenya's largest single manufactured export is canned pineapple, and the

country ranks among the top five pineapple exporters in the world, both of which feats are direct

results of the company's existence and operations. In 2002, Cirio Alimentare, a European based

food processing giant acquired a 98% stake in the company, and following this the company

changed its name to Cirio Del Monte Kenya Limited. The company owns a 10,000-acre (40 km²)

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pineapple plantation and employs approximately 6,000 workers (2006 estimate) with 60% of the

workforce being female.

The company‘s products are primarily exported to the European market with 34% being juice

concentrate, 22% solid pineapple, 21% mill juice sugar and 22% cattle feed.

Selected Del-monte products

Vegpro Group-Kenya

VP Food with a turnover of $121 million (2012) is the largest producer and exporter of fresh

produce from Kenya. The company has six own farms and manage 1700 smallholder farmers in

four major producing areas of Kenya. The company grows and packs a wide range of quality

vegetables all year round. They are also experts in 'freshcut' produce including complex added

value lines such as stir fries. Alongside growing, processing and exporting vegetables; Vegpro

now ranks among Kenya‘s top five flower exporters. VP Group has grown rapidly in recent years

by expanding its vegetable and flower production beyond Kenya into Ethiopia and Ghana;

exploring new products such as sugar; and vertically integrating by bringing marketing and

logistics operations in-house.

Amiran Kenya Ltd

Since 1963, Amiran Kenya Ltd has been a driving force behind the horticulture and floriculture

industries in Kenya and throughout East Africa, providing complete solutions in all of its fields

of expertise that include greenhouse technology, drip irrigation systems, chemicals, fertilizers,

hybrid seeds (Amiran Gold Medal seeds) and small-scale farming. Offering a holistic approach

for Kenya and East African farmers, Amiran offers top quality technology and inputs, training

and agro-support, which has revolutionized the agricultural sector allowing farmers to turn their

land into real profit. From products and services to training and capacity building for farmers, the

Amiran brand has become synonymous with the highest international standards of excellence.

Monsanto

Monsanto Company, with a net income of US$ 2.482 billion (2013) is a publicly traded

American multinational agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology corporation headquartered

in Missouri, GE. It is a leading producer of genetically engineered (GE) seed and of the herbicide

glyphosate, which it markets under the Roundup brand. Monsanto was one of the first companies

to apply the biotechnology industry business model to agriculture, using techniques developed

by Genentech and other biotech drug companies in the late 1970s in California. In January 2010,

Forbes magazine named Monsanto company of the year for 2009 in addition Science Magazine

ranked Monsanto as 5th

on its 2013 Top Employers list, describing its top attributes as

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"innovative leader in the industry", "makes changes needed", and "does important quality

research".

Bayer CropScience

Bayer CropScience an arm or Bayer AG is a German multinational company with products in

crop protection (i.e. pesticides), nonagricultural pest control, seeds and plant biotechnology. In

addition to conventional agrochemical business, it is involved in genetic engineering of food.

The company has total revenue of €39.76 billion (2012). In September 2014, the firm announced

plans to invest $1 billion in the United States between 2013 and 2016. A Bayer spokesperson

said that the largest investments will be made to expand the production of its herbicide Liberty.

Liberty is used to kill weeds which have grown resistant to Monsanto's product Roundup. Major

products include fungicides (tebuconazole, fluopyram and pyrimethanil).

MODE OF LEARNING AGRICULTURE IN THE UNIVERSITY

Now that you know how important agriculture is, and the numerous opportunities available in

this profession let us review how agriculture is learnt and taught in the university. Agriculture

training in the university is so different from what your perception or imagination is when

leaving high school. It is so interesting, exciting, captivating, fascinating, thrilling and exciting.

It is based on hands on learning intended to make you better, capable, competent, effective, and

competitive. To ensure the best learning platform is offered to students, different approaches are

used. These include lectures/ theory classes, practicals, seminars, internships/ industry

attachments, field trips, research projects among others. We would like you to clearly

understand what each of these methods of learning entails:

1. Lectures

Lectures are theoretical classes aimed at introducing you to the course content. It lays the

foundation for learning by giving a structure for each course. Lecturers adopt varying and

interesting teaching methods to ensure the learning process in rich and suitable for you at entry

level. Lecture method is mostly applied here especially in introduction of new courses, providing

clarification and handling large classes.

2. Practicals

These are done in the laboratory or field. The key objective is to ensure you ―learn by doing‖.

You should ensure you participate in practicals to acquire knowledge of the various procedures,

methods and skills necessary for a career in agriculture. Practicals involve activity based hands-

on interactions with plants, specimens, animals, insects, microorganisms, e.t.c. Usually practical

classes are given more time allocation in the timetable to ensure the learning outcomes are

achieved. Practicals are among the most interesting activities you will take part in. You will have

the opportunity to work with advanced equipment and machines, learn new and sophisticated

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techniques, visualize various types of life as it exists. Pay attention, unlike theory a practical

class once missed is hard to repeat. For the adventurous, be sure to adhere strictly to safety

procedures!

3. Demonstrations

Lecturers or technicians show how to do procedures while the students watch. It is a good way of

showing technical handling of agricultural tools, machines and equipment. It is especially useful

when the resources are limited or are of a delicate or potentially dangerous nature. This can also

include videotapes and pictures showing plant infestation, deformities, and symptoms of diseases

in livestock. Increasingly demonstrations are becoming popular using computers, you can

discover various illustrations online, e.g. you tube that make learning agriculture fascinating.

4. Seminars

Seminars are important in building your communication and presentation skills. In the course of

your learning in the university you will have an opportunity to prepare and present a seminar on

a selected topic either individually or in a group setting. You will do this while other presenters

and the audience will listen and ask you questions on your topic. The audience listens and asks

objective questions to understand further or to positively criticize the presentation. This exercise

will help you to learn how to use computer software (power point presentation programme) and

equipment (computer, projectors, pointers, screens). These skills are very important in your

future career e.g. during public speaking, job interviews, engagement with communities, and

they strengthen your confidence and self image and increase your visibility which can greatly

influence success in future careers. Whenever there is an opportunity make sure you present, and

be well prepared.

5. Field trips and excursions

This is one of the most exciting activities you will take part in when you choose to study

agriculture at university. No other course could provide you with as much opportunity to travel

and explore your country and even the world. It gives you the best opportunity to discover your

country, diverse cultures, economic activities, agroecologies, technologies, tourist attractions,

and many others that those not studying agriculture will not see in a lifetime! Field trips expose

students to the real-life experiences in agriculture away from the university setting. It allows

learners to discover knowledge of what happens in agricultural work setting. They provide a

valuable means by which learning in class can be transferred to different settings. They

encourage students to make connections between the knowledge gained and the ―real‖ world, as

well as linking different areas of the curriculum. Students usually visit agro-industries, research

institutions, Companies and farms among others that are of educational importance. The setting

makes learning absolutely interesting and thrilling. Trips will enable you to make observations,

ask questions, network with potential employers and collect information, which cannot be

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obtained within the classroom. Even if you forget everything else, you will not easily forget the

experiences acquired during field trips.

6. Research projects

Projects are planned educational activities in which students investigate particular concepts or

phenomenon on their own and over a long period of time with the lecturer as a guide. A research

project may involve a single learner or group of learners. Projects can be carried out within or

outside the university and often have a limited lifespan, usually in the final year of study.

Projects usually involve three major stages; planning, implementation and evaluation. Projects

will help you to work independently or in a team, apply theoretical knowledge, harness your

leadership capacities and build knowledge in various areas of interest.

Research projects

7. Industrial attachments

Internships and attachments are an important activity in the study of agriculture in the university.

A student will spend time working within an industry or a farming community, or a research

institution to gain insights on how real life day to day work looks like for those working in

agriculture careers. Attachments are usually undertaken during the University semester breaks,

usually on the third or final year of study. They are meant to expose the students to the work

environment over a long period of time. Students can be attached in their areas of interest in

agro-based institutions. They are important for students to make informed decisions for their

career progression and also help to establish networks that can help students in future careers.

8. Examination

Assessment of agriculture learning in the university is also interesting and can take different

forms. It can be in the form of written examination, term paper, practical reports, research

project, internship evaluation reports, seminars, or field trip report. Different ways are used to

determine whether the objectives of the course have been achieved.

THE LINK BETWEEN AGRICULTURE AND OTHER DISCIPLINES

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Agriculture is rich in offering an all round exposure in courses that expose you to current issues

thus giving you a competitive edge in the job market. By the time you complete your degree

course in agriculture you will have acquired a rich set of competencies in diverse areas including

communication, use of computers, marketing, farm management, data analysis, GIS, online

search systems, agric engineering, energy planning and management, business and trade

management, among others.

Information Technology; Information Technology is rapidly becoming more and more visible

in developmental agriculture. People in agriculture must have computer and information

technology to participate and make informed decisions in the agricultural industry. Learners

must have ability to gather, process, and manipulate data. People who use information

technology creatively are pioneering careers in agriculture today. Jobs in today's agricultural

workforce require greater use of technological skills than ever before. Therefore you will learn

how to integrate ICT and agriculture.

Trade and Banking; Agriculture is increasingly becoming commercial with targets for the

export and high end markets. Therefore, decisions have to be made about the trade policies and

regulations that guide cross-border trade. You will learn to these issues so you are fit for global

employment.

Nutrition and Health; The food consumed is sorely produced through agriculture and

contributes to human nutrition and health. The quality of food produced should ensure that the

world population is well fed with safe food that does not compromise their health. Nutrition is

very important especially to vulnerable group in the population such as children, people with

disabilities and expectant mothers. You will learn how micro-nutrient deficiencies can be solved

through improved agriculture.

Environment; The environment is important because this is where agriculture takes place. This

includes soil, water, air quality and biodiversity. Care has to be taken during agriculture practices

to ensure that these are used sustainably. Pesticides and fertilizers need to be used well to prevent

pollution issues which can lead to endangering natural habitats. You will learn how to know

ways of mitigating and adapting to climate change and the climate smart agriculture practices.

Transport and communication; Agriculture is heavily hinged on transport and communication

because this is where the sellers meet the buyers. Good infrastructure allows for success in

agriculture due to the perishable agricultural produce.

This section shows how agriculture is linked to many sectors and how these tend to revolve

around agriculture. You can find your niche in any place in agriculture and get to be involved in

other sectors as well.

SURVIVAL TACTICS IN UNIVERSITY!

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Academically

Develop a sense of purpose – write down the core reason you are in the university.

Develop a positive attitude - towards university and the course you are taking.

Get organized - you are responsible for your life here. Class time and deadlines for

assignment have to be observed. Get an organizer, an app, or wall calendar to help you.

Find an ideal place for study - library, hostel, or wherever you can get your work done.

Go to class – that is where learning happens, be sure to interact with peers and lecturers.

2/3 rule of attendance is expected. A report has to be submitted weekly on attendance.

Systems are in place to monitor and enforce this.

Be informed - Always know the course requirements and important semester dates.

Meet your Lecturers – they have put time aside for consultation. Utilize this opportunity

to know them and let them know you because you may need recommendation letter in

future.

Get a mentor – He/she will help you with important decisions regarding academic or

social life.

Know your academic advisor - He/ she will be important in your academic performance

in terms of grades, choice of major and such related issues.

Strive for good grades – they are earned by showing excellence. Set goals for yourself

and ensure you work hard to achieve them.

Don't cheat in exams, assignments or term papers or tests- you can be expelled. Say no

to Mwakenya!!!

Back up your data - Always have a back up in an external disk, drop box, Google drive

or other suitable form to ensure your assignments are safe.

Utilize study resources on campus - The university has a wide range of resources from

a well equipped library, laboratories and lecturers and other staff members. Use them

effectively.

Social

Know your colleagues - your peers share similar experiences and emotions. They will

challenge and influence you a lot. Choose people to associate with wisely.

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Balance - University life is a mixture of social and academic happenings. Ensure you get

involved and utilize fully the opportunities that come your way.

Have good social skills – Practice good values such as courtesy and respect. Importantly

keep off drugs, alcohol and substance abuse.

Be at the right place at the right time with the right people

Personally

Take responsibility of your actions - Don't blame others, being an adult means taking

responsibility for everything that happens to you.

Stay healthy/Eat Right - Get enough sleep and eat right. Avoid junk food. Excise

frequently.

Seek professional help when you need it - The university has health and counseling

centers, with qualified and experienced staff. Use them as may be necessary.

Keep track of your money - Create a personal budget, so you can spread your resources

through the whole semester comfortably. Find ways to stretch your money, avoid impulse

buying, avoid getting into debt. Most importantly, live within your means. It is wise to

have a bank account so you can manage your finances better.

MEMORABLE QUOTES

―The discovery of agriculture was the first big step toward a civilized life.‖ Arthur Keith,

Scottish Scientist

―In a world of plenty, no one, not a single person, should go hungry. But almost 1 billion still do

not have enough to eat. I want to see an end to hunger everywhere within my lifetime.‖ Ban Ki-

moon, United Nations Secretary-General

―Today we are seeing best practices in action. We know that, if scaled up with speed, these

approaches could increase food production and improve livelihoods without damaging the

environment. We need to create conditions for innovation and then invest so that innovation

moves from the lab to the farmer‘s fields.‖ Rachel Kyte, Vice President of the World Bank

―As the world‘s population grows, we have to work together to create a sustainable food system,

this is one of the most important challenges of our time‖ Barack Obama, Presisent of the US

“For of all gainful professions, nothing is better, nothing more pleasing, nothing more delightful,

nothing better becomes a well-bred man than agriculture‖ Marcus Tullius Cicero , Ancient

Roman Lawyer,

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―Agriculture is the most healthful, most useful and most noble employment of man.‖ George

Washington.