Pre-Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science)

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

The Pre-Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) offered by Vocational Education & Technology Academy (VETA) is an 18-month technical training program based on the national curriculum developed by the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT).

This course is designed for students who have passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and want to develop hands-on plant and crop production skills. With 40 seats available per academic cycle and 4 scholarships, the program focuses on preparing entry-level agricultural workers ready to support Nepal’s farming communities.

Curriculum Details

The course combines theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to plant science. The major components of the curriculum include:

• Introduction to agronomy and horticulture

• Crop and vegetable production techniques

• Soil preparation and basic fertility management

• Nursery development and seedling propagation

• Farm tools, equipment handling, and safety

• Basic pest and disease management

• Organic compost preparation and usage

• Agricultural recordkeeping and seasonal planning

Students undergo internal assessments, practical evaluations, and a final examination conducted by CTEVT.

Objectives

The course has been introduced to fulfill the following goals:

• Develop a working knowledge of general farming practices

• Train students for entry-level positions in agricultural settings

• Promote the adoption of scientific farming among rural youth

• Provide a strong foundation for future diploma-level studies in agriculture

• Strengthen the agricultural workforce at the grassroots level

Scope

Graduates of the Pre-Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) can work in:

• Local farms and cooperatives

• Private nurseries and seedling centers

• Community agricultural programs

• Basic technical support roles in agriculture-focused NGOs

• Organic and small-scale vegetable production

The course also acts as a bridge for students who plan to pursue a Diploma in Agriculture later.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

• Prepare soil and plan crop rotations

• Raise nurseries for vegetables and seasonal crops

• Maintain basic agricultural records

• Identify early-stage plant diseases and recommend control measures

• Use basic farm tools and manage safety protocols

Skill Development Modules

This program focuses heavily on practical skills through:

• Fieldwork on school farms and local plots

• Soil mixing, composting, and natural pesticide preparation

• Practice in transplanting and seedling care

• Observation and recording of crop growth

• A short research or field report submitted at the end of the program

Teaching Methodology

The teaching approach includes short lectures, demonstrations, group activities, and supervised farm practice. Students are encouraged to learn by doing, using locally available materials and tools. Instructors guide learners through each phase of planting, maintenance, and harvesting.

Admission Requirements

• Minimum qualification: SEE passed

• Entrance exam: Required as per CTEVT criteria

• Total capacity: 40 students

• Course duration: 18 months

• Instruction language: Primarily Nepali, with English used for technical terms

• Selection process: Based on entrance performance and the reservation rules set by CTEVT

Career Opportunities

This course opens doors to employment and practical roles such as:

• Field helper on vegetable and grain farms

• Nursery worker in public or private plant centers

• Agricultural assistant in community farming projects

• Vegetable producer for local markets

• Entry into further technical study (Diploma in Agriculture or related programs)

Scholarships and Financial Aid

VETA provides 4 scholarship seats for eligible candidates under the reservation system guided by CTEVT. Scholarships are offered to promote inclusion and affordability. The fee structure follows the standard rates set officially by CTEVT and remains consistent across institutions.

Why Choose This Course?

The course provides a solid start for SEE graduates interested in plant production and rural livelihoods. With a short duration, practical orientation, and local relevance, it helps build agricultural competency and contributes to youth employment in the farming sector.

Conclusion

The Pre-Diploma in Agriculture (Plant Science) at VETA, Gorkha, offers an accessible pathway to gain fundamental crop and vegetable farming skills. Through structured training and practical exposure, students are prepared for immediate work or continued education in agriculture.