South Africa is a water scarce country that experiences variable rainfall, seasonally and geographically, agriculture uses 67% of available water in South Africa. Smart, water wise irrigation systems can help the efficient use of water resources in agriculture, that is key to the economy and ensuring food security. Irrigation involves the watering of crops through varied systems of tubes, pumps and sprays so that crops receive the optimal amount of water to grow.
Irrigationists work in teams, coordinating with farm managers and supervisors in the irrigation of crops. They predominately work outdoors in farming areas and can be exposed to adverse weather conditions.
A good understanding of basic irrigation, hydraulic and electrical principles is needed by irrigationists. They will additionally benefit from:
Assemble, disassemble or move portable irrigation systems
Measure and estimate the quantity of water required
Operate water pumps, regulating and controlling water flows
Monitor and perform maintenance on all parts of an irrigation system
Irrigationists can benefit from a National Certificate in Landscape Irrigation at National Qualifications Framework Level 1 to 2, accredited by the Agriculture Sector Education Training Authority.
They can also benefit from a National Certificate in Primary Agriculture in Plant Production at National Qualifications Framework Levels 1 to 2 offered at agricultural colleges and most Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges. Training could also take place on the job with mentoring by an experienced irrigation technician.
National and provincial government.
Commercial and small-scale farms.
Agricultural co-operatives.
Research institutions.
