Goat and Sheep Farm Management Program

Program Summary

Start Dates

Duration

Fees

Learning Activities

Course Overview

The Goat & Sheep Farm Management Program is a comprehensive training designed to empower farmers, agribusiness professionals, and livestock managers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to establish and run successful goat and sheep farming enterprises.

This program delves into every aspect of small ruminant farming, from breed selection and nutrition management to disease control and market access. Participants will explore sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices, learn to add value through meat, milk, and fiber production, and develop business strategies for financial success.

With a focus on productivity, animal health, and profitability, this program prepares participants to thrive in the dynamic livestock industry.

What You Will Achieve

1

Hands-on Skills

Learn practical techniques to improve goat and sheep farm productivity.

2

Recognized Certification

Receive a Certificate of Completion that enhances credibility in the livestock industry.

3

Networking Opportunities

Connect with industry leaders, peers, and buyers in the livestock value chain

Program Curriculum

Module 1

Introduction to Goat & Sheep Farming and Value Chains

Understand the economic significance of goat and sheep farming, the value chain dynamics, and market opportunities.

Topics Covered:

Local and global demand for goat and sheep products (meat, milk, fiber).
Value addition opportunities such as cheese, yogurt, leather, and wool.
The role of small ruminants in sustainable agriculture.

Actionable Insights:

Map the value chain to identify opportunities for maximizing profitability.
Explore niche markets, including organic and specialty products.

Module 2

Breed Selection and Housing Management

Learn to select the right breeds for your farming goals and create housing systems that support animal health and productivity.

Topics Covered:

High-yield breeds (e.g., Boer goats, Dorper sheep) and their characteristics.
Designing housing systems for ventilation, drainage, and temperature control.
Pasture systems and rotational grazing for better land management.

Actionable Insights:

Develop a breed selection plan based on climate, resources, and market demand.
Implement housing designs that improve animal comfort and reduce disease risk.

Module 3

Nutrition and Feeding Management

Discover nutrition strategies to ensure optimal growth, reproduction, and production of goats and sheep.

Topics Covered:

Nutritional needs across different life stages.
Feeding strategies: silage, hay, concentrates, and fodder crops.
Balancing diets for meat, milk, and fiber production.

Actionable Insights:

Design cost-effective feeding plans using locally available resources.
Implement feeding schedules to optimize growth and reduce feed waste.

Module 4

Disease and Parasite Management

Learn to prevent, identify, and treat common diseases and parasites in goats and sheep.

Topics Covered:

Common diseases like foot rot, mastitis, and pneumonia.
Parasite control strategies, including deworming and pasture rotation.
Vaccination programs and biosecurity measures.

Actionable Insights:

Develop a health plan that includes regular check-ups and vaccinations.
Train workers to detect and address disease outbreaks early.

Module 5

Reproductive Management

Master breeding cycles and reproductive management to improve herd productivity.

Topics Covered:

Estrus cycles, breeding techniques, and timing.
Caring for pregnant and lactating animals.
Kid and lamb rearing: colostrum feeding, weaning, and health monitoring.

Actionable Insights:

Implement a breeding calendar to optimize reproductive efficiency.
Develop protocols for managing newborn care and reducing mortality rates.

Module 6

Value Addition and Processing

Explore opportunities to maximize profits through value-added products and by-product utilization.

Topics Covered:

Meat processing and packaging for premium markets.
Producing goat and sheep milk products like cheese and yogurt.
Wool and mohair production: shearing, cleaning, and marketing.
Utilizing by-products such as manure for composting and bioenergy.

Actionable Insights:

Create branded value-added products to reach niche markets.
Leverage e-commerce platforms to market processed goods.

Module 7

Financial and Business Management

Learn to manage farm finances and develop strategies for long-term profitability.

Topics Covered:

Budgeting and financial planning for small ruminant farms.
Risk mitigation strategies, including insurance for livestock.
Accessing funding, grants, and subsidies.
Building buyer relationships and understanding market trends.

Actionable Insights:

Develop a farm business plan to optimize costs and returns.
Identify funding opportunities to scale operations.

Module 8

Sustainability and Climate Resilience

Focus on adopting sustainable practices to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact.

Topics Covered:

Rotational grazing to prevent overgrazing and land degradation.
Integrating fodder crops and agroforestry for ecological balance.
Renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered water pumps.
Climate-resilient livestock practices, including drought-tolerant fodder options.

Actionable Insights:

Transition to sustainable grazing practices to improve soil health.
Incorporate renewable energy solutions to reduce operating costs.

Why Study at the Nigerian College of Agribusiness?

No other institution in Africa offers such a comprehensive approach to agribusiness and development sector education as the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. We provide a unique blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and industry connections. Here, you will learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and deeply engaged with the latest advancements in their industries.

We leverage interdisciplinary knowledge and the latest research to enhance our programs, ensuring they are relevant and impactful. At NCA, you will continuously engage with thought leaders who are constantly shaping the dynamics of their industries and after graduation, you will be a life-long member of a vibrant alumni community that continually foster cross-disciplinary learning and networking.

Admission Process

STEP 1: Complete the Application for Admission Form for the course

STEP 2: A non-refundable application fee of N20,000 applies and will be deducted from the tuition upon enrollment. This is payable into
Zenith Bank
Account Name: Nigerian College of Agribusiness
Account Number: 1228461510

STEP 3: Attach receipt of Application fee with your highest academic credential and submit to: [email protected]

STEP 4: Upon successful evaluation of your application, you will receive your Admission Letter indicating acceptance into the program. The Letter will also contain details of enrollment into the Course.
Click on the link below to fill the application form for this course

Tuition Fees

Local: N450,000

International Students: $400

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