Students from the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) Ogongo Campus, enrolled in the Diploma in Livestock Production and Diploma in Agriculture programmes, embarked on an enriching academic excursion, early September 2024.
The visit took them to farms in the Tsumeb and Grootfontein districts, where they gained valuable insights into commercial farming. The purpose of the excursion was to expose the students to real-world agricultural practices.
According to Mr. Lukas Kaholongo, lecturer at Ogongo Campus, the trip aimed to “acquaint students with commercial production, focusing on livestock breeding, horticultural production, and the practical application of modern farming techniques.”
- Day1: Oshivelo farm
Exposed to commercial horticultural production and packaging
This hands-on experience is a key component of the programmes offered at UNAM, providing students with an opportunity to step outside the classroom and into the field.
On day two, they explored Jowell Boer Goat Stud Farm, where Mr. and Mrs. Stoman introduced them to the breed standards of Boer goats.
- Day 2: Jowell Boer goat stud farm
Mr. & Mrs Stoman explaining the breed standard of Boer goats to students.
During the excursion, students visited Oshivelo farm, where they observed commercial horticultural production and packaging processes.
- Ludwigshafen farm
Students exposed to silage production. Mr. Hansie Van der Mere explaining how to Setup drip irrigation.
“Understanding breed standards is critical for any livestock farmer,” said Mr. Kaholongo.
- Day 3: Farm Ludendorff (Grootfontein district)
Simmental/Brahman/Boran stud herds
Mr. Kaspar Gunzel highlighting the importance of breeding and characteristics of these breeds.
- Farm Bornholm
Mr. Gunzel engaging students at farm Bornholm in Grootfontein district.
Students taken through the desirable characteristics of a Simmental cow.
The trip also included visits to farms specialising in silage production, drip irrigation, and livestock breeding. Particularly, students learned about the desirable characteristics of Simmental cows at Farm Bornholm, guided by Mr. Kaspar Gunzel.
- Day 4: Rietfontein (NYS)
Students were exposed to Lucerne production as well as horticultural production.
In the end, the week-long excursion offered students a comprehensive view of the agriculture industry, equipping them with practical skills to advance in their future careers.
