Introduction
The Position of the Deputy Principal and Head of Academics has been established to support the Principal and the Executive Management in the overall leadership and management of the Institute.
Overview
As the Head of Academics, the office is also responsible to oversee the Institutes Academic Departments:
- Forestry and Natural Resource Management
- Animal Production and Agri-Business
- Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering
As a result of this, All Head of Departments report directly to her:
- Dr Zamokwakhe Ntshangase – Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering.
- Dr Bethwell Moyo – Animal Production and Agri-Business.
- Mr Aphelele Goldsmith – Forestry and Natural Resource Management.
Academic Programs
Department of Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Department of Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering strives to create a dynamic learning environment that promotes innovation, practical training, and the development of skilled professionals who can contribute effectively to the agricultural sector.
Whilt it is committed to excellence in agricultural education, research, and community engagement, it is also dedicated to advancing sustainable agricultural development through the integration of crop science, horticulture, and agricultural engineering.
Through teaching, research, and extension activities, the department equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to address modern agricultural challenges, improve productivity, and enhance food security.
The department offers three qualification programmes, namely the Diploma in Agriculture with specialization in Crop Production, Diploma in Agricultural Engineering, and the Advanced Diploma in Horticulture.
Each programme is designed to provide specialized knowledge and competencies that respond to the evolving needs of the agricultural industry.
Through these programmes, the Department of Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering continues to develop competent graduates who are well equipped with the knowledge and practical skills needed to address the challenges of modern agriculture.
The department remains committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and excellence in agricultural education and practice.
Head of Department, Dr Ntshamgase says they warmly welcome students, partners, and stakeholders to engage with the department as we work together to advance agricultural development and food security. The Department of Crop Production and Agricultural Engineering is committed to:
- Developing competent graduates with theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
- Promoting innovation and sustainability in agricultural practices.
- Enhancing food security and agricultural development through teaching and learning research and community engagement
Department of Animal Production and Agri-Business
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Department of Animal Production & Agri-Business at Fort Cox Agriculture & Forestry Training Institute, provides integrated training in livestock production and agri-business management.
The Animal Production component focuses on practical skills in animal health, nutrition, breeding, and farm management, while Agri-Business equips students with knowledge in business management, marketing, and finance within the agricultural sector.
Through a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and industry relevance, the department prepares graduates for careers across the agricultural value chain, including farming, agribusiness, research, advisory services, and entrepreneurship, contributing to sustainable agriculture and rural development.
Qualifications:
The Department of Animal Production & Agri-Business offers a range of qualifications designed to equip students with both practical and theoretical expertise in agriculture.
These include the Diploma in Agriculture with specialization in Animal Production, the Diploma in Agriculture with specialization in Agri-Business, and the Advanced Diploma in Animal Production.
These programmes are structured to develop competent graduates with the skills required for employment, further study, and entrepreneurship within the agricultural sector.
Industry linked Short Courses:
The Department of Animal Production & Agribusiness offers industry-linked short courses designed to equip participants with practical, job-ready skills. These include specialized training in Mohair Sorting and Classing, Wool Classing, and Artificial Insemination.
These courses are aligned with industry standards and are aimed at farmers, technicians, and aspiring professionals seeking to enhance their skills and improve productivity within the livestock sector.
Forestry & Natural Resource Management Department
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Department of Forestry and Natural Resource Management currently offers two programmes: Diploma in Forestry NQF level 6 which is a three-year programme and the Advanced Diploma in Forestry Management at NQF level 7 that is a one-year programme.
These Programmes are fully accredited by The Council on Higher Education (CHE) through its Higher Education Quality Assurance Committee (HEQC).
The programmes train students on principles of sustainable forest management practices: application of modern technologies for planting, harvesting and monitoring forest stand; finance and economic models for profitable forest enterprise; introduction to applied research practices; and managing forest resources for multiple purposes especially recognising the social and ecological values of these ecosystems.