Proportion and Number of Graduates in Agriculture and Aquaculture Including Sustainability Aspects

Proportion and Number of Graduates in Agriculture and Aquaculture Including Sustainability Aspects

Sustainable agriculture and aquaculture are essential for addressing global challenges related to food security, environmental conservation, and social equity. Practitioners in these fields aim to balance three primary objectives: ensuring a healthy environment, achieving economic profitability, and promoting social and economic equity. Every individual involved in the agricultural value chain—whether they are growers, food processors, distributors, retailers, consumers, or waste managers—plays a crucial role in fostering a sustainable system.

Proportion of Graduates in Agriculture and Aquaculture:

Centurion University is committed to equipping its graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and aquaculture. In 2023, a total of 419 students enrolled in various agriculture and aquaculture programs, with a significant focus on sustainability. These students are actively learning how to integrate sustainability into agricultural practices, making them vital contributors to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Enrolment Trends

Over the years, Centurion University has seen a steady increase in the number of students opting for agriculture and aquaculture programs. The rising interest reflects the growing recognition of the importance of sustainable food production systems in the face of climate change, population growth, and environmental degradation.

Number of Graduates from Agriculture and Aquaculture Courses Including Sustainability Aspects

Centurion University’s curriculum for agriculture and aquaculture includes a variety of courses focused on sustainability, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to implement environmentally responsible and economically viable farming and aquaculture practices. The following courses form part of the comprehensive training students receive, each emphasising sustainability aspects:

Key Courses on Sustainable Agriculture and Aquaculture:

1. Farming System and Organic Farming for Sustainable Agriculture (ASAG3207) – (2+1)
   • Focuses on organic farming methods and sustainable farming systems that improve soil health, reduce chemical usage, and enhance biodiversity.
2. Advanced Sustainable Aquaculture (CUTM 2379) – (3+1+0)
   • Teaches advanced practices in aquaculture with a focus on minimizing environmental impact while optimizing production.
3. Cropping System and Sustainable Agriculture (AGRO 0511) – (2+0+0)
   • Covers sustainable cropping systems that reduce water usage, improve soil fertility, and maximize yield while preserving ecosystems.
4. Soil and Water Chemistry (FSEM 1102) – (2+1+0)
   • Provides insights into maintaining soil and water quality, essential for sustainable agriculture.
5. Aquatic Ecology, Biodiversity, and Disaster Management (FSEM 2106) – (2+1+0)
   • Examines the role of aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity in sustainable aquaculture, with a focus on disaster preparedness.
6. Finfish Hatchery Management (FSAQ 3105) – (2+1+0)
   • Focuses on sustainable hatchery practices for finfish species, ensuring responsible breeding and conservation.
7. Shellfish Hatchery Management (FSAQ 2206) – (1+1+0)
   • Promotes sustainable hatchery practices for shellfish, ensuring high-quality production without damaging marine environments.
8. Biofloc Aquaculture (CUAQ 2252) – (1+2+0)
   • A cutting-edge aquaculture method that uses biofloc technology for intensive fish farming with reduced environmental impact.
9. Ornamental Fish Farming (CUAQ 2251) – (1+2+0)
   • Sustainable practices in ornamental fish farming that minimize resource use and promote species diversity.
10. Coastal Zone Management (FSEM 3108) – (1+1+0)
    • Addresses the challenges of managing coastal areas sustainably, focusing on protecting marine ecosystems while promoting aquaculture.

Additional Courses Emphasizing Sustainability:

• Fundamentals of Agronomy (ASAG1101) – (2+1)
• Renewable Energy and Green Technology (ASAE2203) – (1+1)
• Rainfed Agriculture and Watershed Management (ASAG2211) – (1+1)
• Environmental Studies and Disaster Management (ASES3101) – (2+1)

Graduates’ Role in Sustainability

Graduates from these programs are equipped with knowledge of sustainable agricultural and aquaculture practices, preparing them to lead initiatives in organic farming, eco-friendly aquaculture, and conservation-based land and water management. They are also skilled in renewable energy applications within farming systems and disaster management, which is essential for adapting to climate change.