Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science)

Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) – Vocational Education & Technology Academy (VETA), Gorkha

The Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) at Vocational Education & Technology Academy (VETA), located in Palungtar-10, Mirkot, Gorkha, is a three-year technical program developed as per the guidelines of the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT).

The course targets SEE graduates and focuses on improving knowledge and practical skills in crop production and plant management. With 40 students per session intake, the program also provides 4 scholarship opportunities under CTEVT's reservation policy.

Curriculum Details

The curriculum is structured to support foundational and applied learning in plant science. It includes the following core areas:

• Agronomy and crop science

• Soil science and fertility management

• Horticulture and nursery development

• Agricultural chemistry

• Integrated pest and disease management

• Irrigation and water management

• Agricultural economics and extension

• Farm machinery basics

Students participate in continuous assessments, laboratory sessions, and project-based learning in line with CTEVT’s national examination system.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this program include:

• Building technical skills in plant production

• Promoting scientific approaches to farming practices

• Preparing mid-level agricultural technicians for community-based work

• Encouraging sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices

• Supporting the agriculture sector through practical workforce development

Scope

The program opens multiple career possibilities for graduates who want to contribute to food production and rural development. Areas of work include:

• Agricultural field technician in the government or private sector

• Technical assistant in farming cooperatives

• Employment in seed companies or agri-input firms

• Roles in NGOs and local development projects

• Eligibility for further study in BSc Agriculture or related fields

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Prepare land and manage crop cycles

• Apply sustainable farming practices

• Analyze soil and recommend nutrient management plans

• Identify and manage pests, diseases, and weeds

• Maintain agricultural records and assist in extension work

Skill Development Modules

Practical learning is a major focus throughout the course. Students participate in:

• Field trials and crop demonstrations

• Soil testing and plant diagnostics

• Compost preparation and organic farming practices

• Community-level agricultural interventions

• Final-year project based on farm research or innovation

Teaching Methodology

Teaching methods include lectures, interactive sessions, laboratory work, and field-based training. Students learn through guided demonstrations, supervised field visits, and practical assignments encouraging real-time learning. Instructors simplify concepts using visual aids and local case studies.

Admission Requirements

• Academic eligibility: SEE passed

• Entrance exam: Mandatory entrance conducted by CTEVT

• Total intake: 40 students

• Duration: 3 years

• Medium of instruction: Nepali with basic English used in technical terms

• Selection is based on merit and the reservation provisions of CTEVT

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can work in a range of roles such as:

• Plant technician in rural municipalities or agricultural offices

• Extension worker supporting farmers at the community level

• Technician at agri-input companies (fertilizers, seeds, tools)

• Coordinator in agriculture development projects

• Self-employed grower, nursery operator, or agri-business entrepreneur

Scholarships and Financial Aid

VETA offers 4 scholarship seats in this program, distributed according to CTEVT’s reservation guidelines. These scholarships help qualified candidates from underrepresented communities access technical education. CTEVT fixes the course fee and follows a uniform structure across all institutions.

Why Choose This Course?

This course provides practical agriculture skills directly relevant to Nepal’s economy and development needs. It supports young learners interested in farming careers, agriculture entrepreneurship, or higher technical education in plant science.

Conclusion

VETA's Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) provides a structured learning environment focused on crop production and sustainable farming. With support from CTEVT and experienced instructors, the course helps students transition from secondary education into employment or further studies in the agriculture field.