Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Bhebhe
[email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Online Agricultural College (ZOAC) has rebranded to Zimbabwe Agricultural College (ZIACO) to better address gaps in agricultural production and management within farming communities.
ZIACO is committed to delivering high-quality agricultural education through online platforms.
“The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development is pleased to inform members of the public that Zimbabwe Online Agricultural College (ZOAC) has officially rebranded to Zimbabwe Agricultural College (ZIACO). This change reflects our commitment to expanding and enhancing our educational services to better serve the agricultural community in Zimbabwe,” said the ministry.
The ministry further outlined the institution’s mission:
“Our mission has always been to empower farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, and farm personnel with the essential skills and knowledge needed to enhance productivity, profitability, and national food security.”
Modules covered under the Executive Certificate in Agricultural Business Management include Communication and ICT Applications, Farm Production Potential, Strategic Farm Planning and Decision-Making, Strategic Agricultural Marketing, Labour Productivity, and Farm Performance Monitoring and Evaluation.
Under the General Certificate in Agricultural Business Management, students undergo training in Farm Power, Farm Planning and Management, Farm Mechanisation and Structures, Agricultural Marketing, Irrigation Management, Animal Production, Beef Cattle and Dairy Production, Apiculture and Aquaculture, Poultry Production, and Small Stock Production.
At present, the country has eight agricultural training institutions: Esigodini Agricultural College (Matabeleland South), Chibero and Gwebi Agricultural Colleges (Mashonaland West), Mlezu and Rio Tinto Agricultural Colleges (Midlands), Mazowe Veterinary College (Mashonaland Central), Shamva Agricultural College, and Kushinga-Phikelela (Mashonaland East).
Online Reporter