General Agriculture

This course gives learners a complete grounding in practical crop farming as it is done in Kenya, from understanding soil and selecting seed through to harvest and storage. Learners study soil fertility and conservation, crop husbandry for the main food and cash crops, pest and disease control, irrigation and water management, and the farm records that turn guesswork into planning. The programme is built around practical sessions and a field attachment, so graduates leave able to plan a season, manage inputs, and advise a smallholder or run a plot of their own.

Target Group
  • School leavers (KCSE holders)
  • Smallholder farmers seeking formal training
  • Farm workers and supervisors
  • Agricultural extension support staff
  • Entrepreneurial youth going into farming
Certification

Award: Certificate from CLIPS TECHNICAL COLLEGE upon successful completion.

Requirements: Completion of all modules + practicals.

Career Value: Prepares graduates for farm supervision, extension support and self-employment in crop production.

Entry Requirements
  • MINIMUM QUALIFICATION: KCSE Certificate
  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT: Basic English proficiency
  • ADDITIONAL: Interest in farming and land-based work
🕒 Full-Time

6 Months intensive program

🕒 Part-Time

6 Months (Evenings/Weekends)

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Agriculture

  • Branches of agriculture
  • Agriculture in the Kenyan economy
  • Farming systems

Module 3: Crop Production

  • Cereals, legumes and horticulture
  • Land preparation and planting
  • Harvesting and storage

Module 5: Irrigation and Water Management

  • Irrigation methods
  • Water harvesting
  • Drainage and conservation

Module 7: Farm Tools and Machinery

  • Hand tools and their care
  • Farm machinery basics
  • Safety in the field

Practical Attachment

  • Supervised field attachment
  • Farm visits and demonstrations

Module 2: Soil Science and Fertility

  • Soil types and properties
  • Soil testing and pH
  • Fertilisers and manures

Module 4: Pest and Disease Management

  • Common crop pests
  • Disease identification
  • Integrated pest management

Module 6: Agroforestry and Conservation

  • Soil erosion control
  • Agroforestry practices
  • Climate-smart agriculture

Module 8: Farm Records and Planning

  • Keeping farm records
  • Costing a season
  • Basic farm budgeting

Career Progression Pathways

Entry-Level Roles
  • Farm Assistant
  • Crop Production Attendant
  • Agro-dealer Assistant
With Experience or Further Study
  • Farm Supervisor
  • Extension Support Officer
  • Independent Farmer