For students at Peritum Agri, being able to follow multiple pursuits is a major benefit. The structure of the courses at this institution, also allows for full-time work, ensuring that students can get both practical experience and learn what they need to know to thrive in the agricultural sector.
Owen Van Wyk, a Peritum student from the class of 2020, says the course structure really aided his learning journey. Not only is Van Wyk working as a farmer, he is also pursuing another full-time qualification.
“[Peritum] gives me time to do both. I recommend you come to Peritum next year and get your diploma in agriculture.”
One of the agricultural diploma courses Van Wyk highlights, is called “Farm Finance”. He says while the course is difficult, he knows it will be useful for future success.
“It’s the second last module of our two-year course. I highly recommend coming here. Farm finance is very difficult, yet very interesting. I’m definitely going to be using it going forward in business.”
Hands-on learning
Sarahlise Schutte, another student from the 2020 class, says the reason she is studying at Peritum is because of the livestock course offered by the institution.
Schutte loves that the diploma is set up as both distance learning and as a practical, hands-on course. “The reason I am currently doing my studies at this institution is because I would like to have a qualification in livestock production.
“Peritum does distance learning and it is very nice. We can come to class every six weeks, and it’s so nice to be here in Bloemfontein just for that week. You feel as if you have a nice student life.”
One of her highlights is definitely the way the course is structured in terms of assessments. “We do not write exams. You [just] do your assessments. I would definitely recommend it if you would like to venture into the agricultural industry.”
Perfect for practical people
Johan De Klerk, another Peritum student, describes himself as a practical person, which is why he feels that the Peritum course suits his needs. He describes one of the practical sessions he attended at the farm Vlakfontein in Trompsburg, while doing his diploma.
“We went through their stud breeding of the sheep and through all the systems, such as weighing and how they do their selection of rams, and what sort of ram go to what sort of ewes.”
For Kata Steyn, the skills she is learning through Peritum are proving to be invaluable. “My experience while doing this qualification is really very good and enjoyable. There are so many additional skills I am learning that I can take back to the farm with me.”
Odette Sheperson, the marketing manager for Peritum, sums up the student experience perfectly. “This is not an ordinary campus. There are very few institutions in South Africa where you can really say you are work-ready as soon as you obtain your qualification. Peritum is one of them.”
ALSO READ: Peritum offers exam-free, practical agriculture diploma
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