KAPASA MAKASA UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 4 years (degree)
Mode of study: Full-time
Admitting school: School of Applied Sciences
Intakes: January
Location: Chinsali
Contacts
Tel: +260 960 980011 / +260 975 093144
E-mail: enquiries@kmu.ac.zm
Website: www.kmu.ac.zm

COPPERBELT UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 4 years (degree) / 2 years (master’s)
Mode of study: Full-Time
Admitting school: School of Natural Resources
Intakes: January
Location: Kitwe
Contacts
Tel: +260 212 290816 / +260 212 290815
Email: academicoffice@cbu.ac.zm OR dean.snr@cbu.ac.zm
Website: www.cbu.ac.zm/fees

WHAT IS FORESTRY AND WHO IS A FORESTER?

Simple definition of a forester is any person who has studied Forestry from a university. Therefore, Forestry is a natural science that involves the expertise of crafting, management, utilization, conserving, and repairing forests, woodlands, and related resources for human and environmental benefits. Forestry is practiced in plantations and natural stands. The study of forestry has segments that have a place with the biological, physical, social, political and managerial sciences.

WHERE DO FORESTERS WORK?

In Zambia, the major employer of foresters is the government under Forestry Department, Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW, formerly ZAWA), Department of Environmental Protection, Natural Resources Department, National Heritage Commission and the Department of Climate Change. In addition to the mainstream government departments, most foresters are employed by the parastatal Zambia Forests and Forestry Industry Corporation (ZAFFICO). Several other potential employers of foresters include non-governmental organizations such as SNV, World Vision, World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF), Zambia Community Based Natural Resources Management (CBNRM) Forum, Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), amongst several other organizations which deal in forestry and other natural resources related programmes. Learning institutions too such as Zambia Forestry College, Mulungushi University and the Copperbelt University do hire foresters.

Private companies such as the Copperbelt Forestry Company, Sikale Wood, Wood Processing Industries and many others that are in the value addition of timber business make up the long list of employers of foresters in Zambia. Consultancy firms too add to the list.

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORK?

The forestry profession involves a wide range of tasks, with different educational requirements of either college diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, MScs and/or PhDs for highly specialized work. Industrial foresters strategize forest regeneration as well as sustainable harvesting. Urban foresters take care of trees and other vegetation in urban green spaces and parks. Foresters work in tree nurseries raising seedlings for woodland creation and other regeneration projects. Foresters also work to improve tree genetics for various purposes in research institutions and laboratories. Forest engineers develop new building systems and other related forestry infrastructure. Other tasks include crafting timber into finished products. Professional specialized foresters measure and model the growth of forests using geographic information systems. Foresters also fight insect infestation, disease, forest and grassland wildfire, but may also allow these natural aspects of forest ecosystems to progress when the probability of epidemics or risk of loss life or property are low. Additionally, foresters play a part in wildlife conservation planning and watershed protection. Foresters have also been mainly associated with timber management, especially through reforestation, maintaining forests at prime conditions, and effective fire control.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF A FORESTER?

Foresters working in government departments typically have the usual work schedule routine starting at 08 hours in the morning to 17 hours later in the afternoon/evening during the normal weekdays. However, on special occasions or assignments, the work schedule is adjusted to suit the particular situation. The daily routine during normal weekdays for those in the private sector or NGO’s varies. Although by Zambian Labour Laws, normal working days in a week are from Monday to Friday, some private companies and NGO’s tend to adjust up to half day on Saturday.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

The biggest employing sector of foresters in Zambia is the government and its agencies, non-governmental organizations and private companies in that order. The need for foresters has never been met due to the continuous increasing negative effects of climate change being experienced world over. Therefore, the job market is always open due to the need to conserve nature, as well as the demand for timber and non-timber forest products.

WHAT SORT OF CAREER-PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?

To be a good forester, one needs to be both physically and mentally fit with a great enthusiasm towards protecting the environment. A great love for the outdoors will easily make one fit into the field of forestry because majority of forestry activities are undertaken outside.

WHERE CAN I STUDY FORESTRY, FOR HOW LONG, TO EARN WHAT QUALIFICATION?

For a Bachelor’s degree, one needs to undertake four years of studying either full-time or on a distance basis to complete at the Copperbelt University. A Diploma in Forestry however only takes three years of study to complete. Only the Zambia Forestry College offers the diploma programme.

WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?

Upon being admitted into a forestry training program, one is expected to undertake A-level science courses (Mathematics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry) in their first year of study. Upon successful completion of the first year, some of the other courses that one will undertake include Silviculture, Land Survey, Soil Science, Agroforestry, Forest Engineering, Biometry/Statistics, Extension, Entomology, Beekeeping and Management/Administration just to mention a few.

WHAT MODES OF STUDY ARE AVAILABLE?

Currently, forestry is being offered on both full-time and distance basis at the Copperbelt University and Zambia Forestry College.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

Being a natural science, the basic entry requirements into a forestry training program at the two institutions mentioned above are 5 credits or better. However, there is a biasness towards Mathematics, English and sciences being mandatory.

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS OF STUDY CAN MAKE SOMEONE A FORESTER?

Currently, no other field of study can completely enable someone do all tasks that a trained forester can perform. Other professionals such as Agriculturalists, Agroforesters, Wildlife Managers and Natural Resource Managers can only partly complement some minor works of a forester.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

Being a broad natural science based program, there are numerous advanced options of study that one can pursue related to forestry. These range from pursuing advanced studies in fields such Soil Science, Biometry, Forest Management Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Conservation, Climate Change, Wildlife Management and Conservation, Geographical Information Systems, Business Administration, Forest/Natural Resources Economics, amongst several other options.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING DAIRY PRODUCTION LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT IS DAIRY PRODUCTION AND WHO IS A DAIRY PRODUCER?

Dairy production is a branch of agricultural sciences that deals with the rearing of animals for milk production. It involves the breeding and raising of dairy animals, primarily cows but also goats and sheep, for their milk and the various dairy products processed from it like fermented milk, yogurt, cheese and butter. A dairy producer is a person who rears dairy animals on a farm or ranch, specifically for milk production.

WHERE DO DAIRY PRODUCERS WORK?

Dairy producers work on farms that rear dairy animals. Most of these farms are owned by dairy companies such as Zambeef Products Ltd, Parmalat Zambia Ltd, Dairy Gold Ltd, Creambell Zambia and Finta Farms Ltd. Examples of farms where dairy producers are employed include Kalundu Dairy Farm, Kasembo Farms, Kamfinsa Dairy Farm, etc. Dairy producers can start their very own dairy farm where they produce milk and milk products that they can then supply to dairy companies and other food and beverage companies that produce foods such as chocolate, butter, cheese, sour milk, yogurt, cream, custard, baby formula, the list goes on.

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THEIR WORK?

Dairy producers carry out various tasks which include the collection of milk from animals (milking), and cleaning of the milk parlor along with the utensils used for milking. They also ensure that storage tanks for milk storage are in proper working order. Furthermore, they collect milk samples which they test to make sure that the milk is free from contamination with disease causing germs.

Dairy farmers check on the health of dairy animals by monitoring for signs of potential disease. They review the pens and surrounding areas to make sure they remain hygienic which reduces the risk of injury and disease. In addition, they supply food and water to their animals and ensure that the supplies remain well stocked so that the animals never go hungry. This allows the animal to continue producing high quality milk. The dairy producers also make recommendations about which breeds of cows to use for higher milk production as well as higher income.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF A DAIRY PRODUCER?

The day of a dairy producer on a farm begins quite early, as early as 05:00hrs. This is so that they can prepare the milking parlour and start the milking process. In dairy companies, the work schedule may follow the normal schedule of 08:00hrs – 17:00hrs from Monday to Friday.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

Finding a job in a dairy company might prove challenging especially for someone with little or no job experience. In most cases, jobs are found on commercial farms with a dairy section and on local dairy farms. However, dairy farming is highly profitable and as a dairy producer one can start up their own business.

WHAT SORT OF CAREER PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?

Dairy farmers are people who enjoy being outdoors and doing hands-on farm work. You should also have an interest in taking care of farm animals.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING DAIRY PRODUCTION LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT SUBJECTS ARE COVERED IN THE PROGRAM?

A dairy production course at a higher learning institution covers wide range of courses including; animal anatomy and physiology, animal nutrition, applied animal nutrition, beef production and dairy production.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

The entry requirement for this program is a full grade 12 certificate, five O’ levels.

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS CAN MAKE YOU A DAIRY PRODUCER?

Other programs that you can study to be a dairy producer include Animal Science which is offered at diploma and degree level and General Agriculture at diploma level.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

After obtaining you certificate in dairy production, you can advance your qualifications by studying for diploma or degree in general agriculture or animal science. These qualifications broaden your knowledge and skills from just dairy animals in particular to include other farm animals such as poultry, beef cattle, pigs, horses etc. This will increase your chances of getting a job in the government or in a big company that not only produces dairy animals but other animals as well.

INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER DAIRY PRODUCTION

PALABANA DAIRY TRAINING INSTITUTE
Duration: 2 years (Certificate in Livestock Production)
Mode: Full time
Intakes: January
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 211 233648 / +260 976 980709
WhatsApp: +260 976 980709

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING VETERINARY MEDICINE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT IS VETERINARY MEDICINE AND WHO IS A VETERINARIAN?

Veterinary medicine is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, control, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, disorder, and injury in both domestic and wild animals. This field of medicine provides us with clues on how animal-related diseases like ringworms, rabies or anthrax, may transition to pose a serious health threat to human beings and some plants. Animal rearing, husbandry, breeding, nutrition research and product development are some essential skills taught in this program. Veterinarians also known as veterinary surgeons or vets for short are trained medical personnel that specialize in this field. Their job requirements calls for both practical (i.e. field and lab) and office work. This is because their daily duties are intended to implementing tasks that ensure good productivity in animals, promotion of public health and educating the general public on both domestic and wild animal welfare. 

WHERE DO VETS WORK?

In this country, most veterinarians work in government owned veterinary clinics. Others choose to work in private clinics and hospitals. Some vets travel to farms or work in places such as zoos, game reserves, national parks and laboratories. Veterinarians who treat livestock travel between their offices and farms and ranches. Agrivet Africa Ltd, Petvet Veterinary Services and Serverchem Enterprises Limited are some private companies that employ vets and their assistants in Zambia. Some vets work as consultants for Banks, law firms and insurance companies to assess the health status of animals whenever farmers and other livestock companies insure their animals or use them as collateral when getting loans from financial institutions.

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORK?

Vets usually carry out farm and livestock inspections so as to monitor any positive or negative measures being taken by farmers and ranchers. Inspections are necessary to ensure a good and healthy supply of livestock products to the general public. When the need arises, samples are collected in the field, carefully tested and analyzed in a lab and then carefully reported. Vets are responsible for the medical care of their patients (i.e. animals). As such, vets diagnose animal health problems and give medications to animals suffering from infections or illnesses. They also treat and dress wounds of injured animals and perform minor to complex surgery depending on the training. Vets vaccinate animals against diseases such as rabies and advise owners about animal feeding and preventive care to maintain the health of the animals. In addition to this vets carry out client education, for example, vets will regularly advise local farmers to dip or deworm animals in the dairy and beef processing activities.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF A VET?

The work schedule of a vet differs on the place of work or the location in which the vet is conducting their field work. Vets working in a clinic or government department or NGO will typically follow the normal 08hrs to 17hrs work schedule from Monday to Friday .Vets that work in the field including national parks, game reserves and farms stick to a working schedule that will suit their field agenda or only report to work if and only when they are needed.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

In Zambia, there are only two known institutions that train animal health professionals. These are UNZA, and the Zambia Institute of Animal Health located in Mazabuka. This means that there is only a limited number of vets and their assistants on the market. A number of years back, the job market was quite competitive because only the government would employ vets. However, with the introduction of more veterinary clinics, privately owned vet companies, more livestock rearing farms etc., there has been and increase in the number of job opportunities. The job market for vets lies in the availability of the aforementioned vet clinics, veterinary government departments and other related private institutions operating in Zambia like Agrivet Africa Ltd, Serverchem Enterprises Limited, Petvet Veterinary Services to name a few, who’s objectives includes the establishment of better animal health services in remote areas and provision of veterinary pharmaceuticals.

 WHAT SORT OF CAREER-PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?

Pursuing a career in veterinary medicine calls for an individual with an interest in animal welfare. Vets need to have compassion toward animals and their owners and should be able to communicate effectively. The program is firmly grounded in the sciences and so to enjoy the study of veterinary medicine you need to have an interest in Biology, Chemistry, and Agricultural Science.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING VETERINARY MEDICINE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER

Before students are enrolled into this program at UNZA they will first learn A’ level natural sciences in their first year i.e., Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology. In the following years, their courses will be narrowed down to more specific courses of veterinary medicine such as Anatomy, Animal Physiology, Animal Pathology, and Microbiology among others.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

Entry into the veterinary medicine degree program at university is very competitive. You need to have scored at least 10 points in 6 subjects at grade 12 to stand a good chance of being accepted into the school of natural sciences from where you can then apply for veterinary medicine in your second year. A’ level passes in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics from elsewhere with a minimum grade of B+ may also be considered for direct admission into veterinary medicine at second year.

The minimum entry requirements for admission to the certificate programs at ZIAH are O’ level credits (grade 6) or better in 5 subjects including Mathematics, English and Science.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

Once you complete a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, you may decide to pursue a master’s degree in veterinary medicine or in other in other fields such as virology, public health, vaccinology, biochemistry, human anatomy, human physiology etc. Such qualifications enable the holder to work in a specialised field of veterinary medicine. This provides an upper hand in competitive job markets especially abroad. A master’s will also allow the holder to work as a lecturer in medical schools.

INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER VETERINARY MEDICINE

UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA
Programme duration: 6 years (degree)
Mode of study: Full-time only
Admitting school: School of Natural Sciences
Intakes: January (only)
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +26 0211 125 3727
Website: www.unza.zm/academics/undergraduate/bachelor-of-veterinary-medicine

ZAMBIA INSTITUTE OF ANIMAL HEALTH
Programme duration: 2 years (Certificate in Animal health and Production or Certificate in Veterinary Laboratory Diagnostics)
Mode of study: Full-time
Intakes: January
Location: Mazabuka
Contacts
Tel: +260 955 300798 / +260 213 230155
Website: www.ziah2.webs.com/home

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING SOIL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT IS SOIL SCIENCE AND WHO IS A SOIL SCIENTIST?

Soil science involves the study of the soil as a resource on the surface of the earth. This programme provides knowledge and skills in management of soil resources upon which all agricultural activities are based. It includes the study of various agricultural activities such as animal and crop production, farm management and extension methods all of which are applied in the context of managing soil resources.

A soil scientist is a person who specializes in the field of social science at a university or college. They study the upper few meters of the earth’s crust in terms of its physical and chemical properties, distribution, formation, morphology and its biological components. Soil scientists mainly apply their knowledge and skills in agricultural related fields such as land husbandry, soil fertility, irrigation management and research.

WHERE DO SOIL SCIENTISTS WORK?

Soil scientists may work for government in the ministry of agriculture, and also for the local government serving in both city and district councils. Here, they advise policy makers on issues regarding soil and water management, waste disposal, road and infrastructure development and they help protect the environment from natural hazards like unsustainable climate change.

Soil scientists also work in other government and non-governmental agencies such as Zambia environmental management agency (ZEMA), water and sewerage companies, conservation farming unit (CFU), and the food and agriculture organisation (FAO). The work in these agencies focuses on things such as pollution monitoring, conservation farming, climate smart agriculture etc. In water and sewerage companies, soil scientists are employed to work as soil and water quality experts.

Some soil scientists work as consultants for farmers and other land users. They offer professional counsel to these farm and land owners on how to manage land and water resources. They may also work in higher learning institutions as lecturers and/or researchers.

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THEIR WORK?

The specific tasks involved in the work of a soil scientist depends on where they work. Those working in government agencies regulate the use of land and soil resources by both the private and public sectors. This involves inspecting projects and activities relating to soil use. They conduct soil surveys through collection of soil samples which are then analysed in a lab. The data from such analyses is used to advise on the capabilities and limitations of soils (e.g., agroforestry, watershed rehabilitation projects, transportation planning, crop or livestock production, and recreation development). They also monitor the effects of farm, ranch and forest activities on soil productivity.

Those consulting for farm owners conduct soil testing in order to guide on crop choice and nutrient requirements. They also analyse water, plants, fertilisers and manures for soil fertility. This is done so that they can make proper fertiliser and lime recommendations, as well as irrigation design and installation.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE?

The typical work schedule of a soil scientist is 08:00hrs – 17:00hrs from Monday to Friday.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

The job market for soil scientists is good because of the many places where their services are required. Soil scientists can work as researchers, hydrologists, soil and water quality experts, soil conservationists, field evaluators in crop production etc.

WHAT SORT OF CAREER PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?

A soil scientist must be an environmentalist by nature, interested in the protection and conservation of the natural environment. They must also be a person that is interested in scientific research and working outdoors. To enjoy studying this program you must have had an interest in subjects such a Biology, Chemistry, Geography and Agricultural Science.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING SOIL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?

Courses covered during the study of this program are A’ level Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology in the first year. In the following years, the courses that are covered include Agro-climatology, Soil Fertility and Amendments, Soil Chemistry and Mineralogy, Soil and Plant Analysis, Soil Genesis and Classification, Agricultural Hydraulics, Irrigation Design and Drainage Systems, Land Husbandry and Land Evaluation and Improvement.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

The minimum entry requirements for this program are five O’ level credits (grade 6) or better, inclusive of Mathematics, English and Science. Because science programs at university are competitive, you need to have scored at least 12 points in your best 6 subjects at grade 12 to stand a good chance being accepted.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

After obtaining a degree in soil science, you can advance your qualification by pursuing a master’s in related fields such as Agronomy, Integrated Soil Fertility Management, Sustainable Land and Environmental Management or Aquaculture. These qualifications allow for specialisation in a particular field of soil science. Specialising sets you apart from the rest and gives you more job opportunities and in higher positions especially abroad. With a master’s, you can also lecture at a university.

INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER SOIL SCIENCE

UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA
Programme duration: 5 years (Degree) / 2 years (Master’s)
Mode of study: Full-time and Part-time
Admitting school: School of Natural Sciences
Intakes: January
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 21 1250587
E-mail: dean-agric@unza.zm
Website: www.unza.zm/academics/undergraduate/bachelor-of-agricultural-sciences-soil-sciences

WHAT IS NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND WHO IS A NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER?

Natural resources management is a career dedicated to sustainability and protection. It is the general management of lakes, forests, plants, soil and other natural resources. It is a broad term that can be applied to several conservation and environmental management projects, such as protecting state property from overdevelopment or planning for effective, sustainable land use.  It is a field that comprises programs of study such as: Integrated Environmental Management, Sustainable Agriculture science, science in Agroforestry, Plant and Environmental Sciences, wood science, Sustainable Natural Resources Management and Clinic, as well as Science in Forestry.

A Natural resources manager is someone who has a qualification in any one of the above-mentioned programs. Their aim is to protect and manage wildlife, trees, plants, soil and water.

WHERE DO NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER WORK?

Natural resources managers can work for government under the ministry of lands, ministry of fisheries and livestock as well as under the ministry of agriculture where they are tasked with monitoring and enforcing compliance with resource usage regulations and laws.  They can also work for department of water affairs for the government.

They often have broad, interdisciplinary science backgrounds and work for non-governmental organisations, and learning institutions as lecturers. They also work for game parks such the Kafue national park, Luangwa national part etc. and they also work for historic and heritage sites where they provide and present educational programs for community groups, schools and visitors, which requires extensive interaction with people and good communication skills.

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORK?

The day to day job for natural resources managers involves overseeing and implementing conservation and sustainability plans for publicly and privately owned land, including parks, nature preserves, historic sites, mining operations and building construction projects. Their work also covers human activities that may benefit, influence or harm the natural environment.

Their tasks sometimes involve hands-on work in restoring and maintaining natural areas and resources, therefore requiring knowledge of plant and animal ecosystems. Natural resource managers may oversee the work of employees who stock fisheries, regulate land and resource use by the public, plant seeds for forestry programs and monitor wildlife populations.

As a natural resources manager, also called a conservation scientist, their primary goal is to oversee the operations of those projects. Some tasks could include formulating the policies and procedures for a natural resources management program or hiring and training staff. They may be tasked to set a budget, oversee program facilities, meet with government officials and conduct scientific studies. They also spend time in the field conducting experiments and observing the land use patterns of humans as well as animals.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF A NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER?

Natural resources managers that work for a government department typically follow the normal 08hrs to 17hrs work schedule Monday to Friday. Natural resources managers who work elsewhere except in government spend time in the field conducting experiments and observing the land use patterns of humans as well as animals.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

The beauty of a degree in Natural Recourses Movement is that you can work in many places. But the unfortunate part is that there is no direct deployment or recruitment by the government, you have to search for employment on your own. If you want you can be self-employed. However, some natural resource managers may choose to specialize in one specific conservation or natural resource activity to become a forester, wildlife manager, range manager, fisheries worker, parks manager or another type of resource manager. But job prospects are mainly available in government ministries and in Non-government organisations.

SALARY RANGES AND WHAT CONTROLS IT?

A person working in Natural Resources Management in Zambia typically earns around 4,020 ZMW per month. Salaries range from 2,230 ZMW (lowest average) to 10,500 ZMW (highest average, actual maximum salary is higher).

WHAT SORT OF CAREER-PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED?

Natural resources managers must have the kind of personality that exhibits innovative science, research, and business management skills to keep organizations’ legal, social, and economic policies in line with environmental developments. They should also have good communication, administrative, and marketing skills. These are the assets in this field that will enable you to enjoy a career in natural resources management.

WHERE CAN I STUDY NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT, FOR HOW LONG, TO EARN WHAT QUALIFICATION?

The main institutions offering training in natural resources management in Zambia are CBU, Kapasa Makasa University, and the Natural Resources Development College (NRDC). Programs on offer include; Integrated Environmental Management, Sustainable Agriculture science, science in Agroforestry, Plant and Environmental Sciences, Wood science, Sustainable Natural Resources Management and Clinic, Science in Forestry, Animal Science, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Horticulture, and Water engineering. Diploma programmes run for 3 years while degree programs run for 4-5 years.

WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?

In general, the subjects covered in the first year of study are A’ level mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. In latter years each specific program, has its own set of subjects covered. Comprehensive lists of subjects covered in each program can be found in the course structures provided by the learning institution of choice.

WHAT MODES OF STUDY ARE AVAILABLE?

The programs are offered on both full time and distance.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

Minimum entry requirements are 5 O’ level credits including Mathematics, English, Biology and/or Agricultural science. Actual cut off point depends on the institution of choice. Those accepted to the university will typically have scored 12 points or better at grade 12.

WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS OF STUDY CAN MAKE SOMEONE A NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER?

As alternatives to qualifications in natural resources management, someone can instead decide to pursue either a diploma in environmental technology or a degree in environmental engineering. These professions, similar to natural resources management, aim at improving protecting and conserving environmental resources.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

Once you study any of the programs under Natural Resources Management, you may decide to pursue a master’s degree in Forestry, or Environmental Sciences or science in Agroforestry or Sustainable Agriculture science or wood science or Integrated Environmental Management. A master’s degree gives you an upper hand when it comes to finding new jobs in competitive environments especially abroad. It’s a sign that apart from general skills, you have taken keen interest to master one area of your job more than other people. With a master’s degree one would become a university lecturer as well.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING ANIMAL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT IS ANIMAL SCIENCE AND WHO IS AN ANIMAL SCIENTIST?

Animal science is concerned with the study of animals that are under human control, their nutrition, care and welfare. Thus by definition, it is a branch of science that deals in the management, science and business of producing domestic livestock species. These may include; horses, poultry, sheep, beef and dairy cattle as well as rabbits to name a few. An animal scientist is a person who specializes in the field of animal science at a higher learning institution such as a university or college. When animal scientists understand the biology of animals that are under the control of humankind, they ensure sustainable production and management of farm animals as well as other domesticated animals like dogs and cats.

WHERE DO ANIMAL SCIENTISTS WORK?

In Zambia, Animal scientists can work for the department of agriculture and livestock under the government where they explore the production, health and quality control of animals and their products in society. Non-governmental organizations like the food and agriculture organization (FAO) also utilize the services of animal scientists. They can also work as farm supervisors, or as field or wildlife experts in the tourism industry. In this country, they work to increase the yield of dairy and meat production, provision of good price incentives, and treating diseases like (tick borne diseases, foot and mouth, trypanosomiasis). Animal scientists can also work for companies such as Lubono Institute-Farm Products, Kachema Meat Suppliers and Zambeef .

WHAT TASKS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORK?

Animal scientists carry out farm management and supervision. This includes advising farm owners on the types of farm chemicals, animal feed and treatment methods necessary to be used on the farm. Animal scientists can collaborate with vets to examine which animals on the farm could be put on the market in order to ensure a good quality supply of meat and dairy products. They can recommend vaccination programs and other animal treatment schemes to ensure that good health quality of animals is provided. Furthermore, animal scientists can work in agro and livestock shops, sales and marketing organizations as they understand the value of both animal and agricultural products.

WHAT IS THE WORK SCHEDULE OF AN ANIMAL SCIENTIST?

Animal Scientists typically work on weekdays (Monday to Friday) from 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs. In some work places, the animal scientist may be required to work on weekends.

WHAT DOES THE JOB MARKET LOOK LIKE?

The government is the largest employer of animal scientists under the ministry of agriculture. Other places where animal scientists will most likely find employment is on commercial farms and ranches privately owned by the companies already listed. The agricultural sector has a lot of potential for self-employment and as such, most animal scientists go on to start their very own poultry, dairy and livestock businesses.

WHAT SORT OF CAREER-PERSONALITY MATCH IS REQUIRED

To enjoy being an animal scientist, you need to have a great deal of passion not only for animals, but also farm work as well. You need to have an interest in science-based subjects such biology, agricultural science and chemistry.

INSTITUTIONS OFFERING ANIMAL SCIENCE LISTED AT THE BOTTOM

WHAT SUBJECTS WILL THE PROGRAM COVER?

Students will first learn the A’ level natural sciences (mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics) in their first year. Subjects covered in the following years include Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals, Microbiology, Principles of Animal Nutrition, Applied Animal Nutrition, Animal Pathology and Principles of Animal Science. Range Management and Forage Crop Production, Introductory Statistics for Agriculture and Principles of Genetics are among other subjects covered.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

General entry requirements are 5 O’ levels inclusive of Mathematics, Science and English. However, entry is quite competitive at University and to stand a good chance of being selected you need to have scored at least 12 points in your best six subjects at grade 12.

 WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS OF STUDY CAN MAKE SOMEONE AN ANIMAL SCIENTIST?

To become an animal scientist, there is no alternative qualification apart. You can however choose to study for other agriculture-related programs such as general agriculture, plant sciences, soil sciences or food sciences.

 WHAT ARE THE FUTURE ADVANCED QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AND WHY?

You can advance your qualifications to a master’s or PhD level in fields such as animal nutrition, animal genetics, animal breeding etc. A master’s in these fields allows for specialisation in a particular field of animal science which increases the job opportunities. A master’s also allows for a person to work as a researcher or a lecturer at a university.

INSTITUTIONS THAT OFFER ANIMAL SCIENCE

UNIVERSITY OF ZAMBIA
Programme duration: 5 years (degree)
Mode of study: Full-time only
Admitting school: School of Natural Sciences
Intakes: January (only)
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +26 0211 250587
E-mail: dean-agric@unza.zm
Website: www.unza.zm/academics/undergraduate/bachelor-of-agricultural-sciences-animal-sciences

KAPASA MAKASA UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 5 years (degree)
Mode of study: Full-time
Admitting school: School of Natural Resources
Intakes: January (only)
Location: Chinsali
Contacts
Tel: +260 212 290816 / +260 212 290815
Email: academicoffice@cbu.ac.zm
Website: www.cbu.ac.zm/fees

ZAMBIA OPEN UNIVERSITY
Programme duration: 4 years (degree)
Mode of study: Distance, Full-time and Part-time
Admitting school: School of Agriculture
Intakes: January
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 211 427600 / +260 969 672965 / +260 976 123055
Email: lovejoy.malambo@zaou.ac.zm / admissions@zaou.ac.zm
Website: www.zaou.ac.zm/

NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COLLEGE
Programme duration: 3 years (diploma)
Mode of study: Full-time and distance learning
Intakes: January
Location: Lusaka
Contacts
Tel: +260 211 282496
Email: info@nrdc.biz / principal@nrdc.biz
Website: www.nrdc.biz/students.html

NKUMBI INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE
Programme duration: 3 years (diploma)
Mode of study: Full-time and distance learning
Intakes: January and July
Location: Kapiri Mposhi
Contacts
Tel: +260 979 329699 / 0968 756184 / 0960 135236
Email: nkumbi@ymail.com
Facebook: Nkumbi International College