University of Venda (UNIVEN)

Overview
The agriculture curriculum at UNIVEN was first established in 1986 as part of the then Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. In January 1995, the School became autonomous with five (5) academic departments. The Department of Forestry was first established in 1998, with the first batch of students being registered in 1999. The department offers Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Forestry Specialisation).

Mission
Within the framework of the mission of the School of Agriculture, the Department of Forestry is dedicated to developing scientists who will be competent in sustainable management of forest resources, be aware of environmental conservation issues and able to address the Sustainable Development Goals to suit local community and global needs.

Vision
To excel in teaching, research, and community engagement to facilitate utilization and sustainable management of forest resources.

Programmes

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Forestry Specialization)

The programme aims at developing scientists who will be competent in sustainable management of natural resources (land, forestry and wildlife), aware of environmental conservation and be able to help communities in sustainable use of forests and trees.

The programme covers a broad range of modules in agriculture (plant production, protection, propagation, breeding, soil science, and agricultural economics) and in forestry (forest ecology and conservation, wood products and utilization, silviculture and harvesting in natural and planted forests and community forestry. Upon completion, graduates can be employed in:

Community forestry and agro-forestry initiatives;
Conservation and ecotourism;
Training, research and extension and planning in government departments and NGOs;
Management of operations in commercial plantations and wood processing industries as well as engage in private entrepreneurship in forestry and/or wood processing.