Agribusiness O'level

The study area SEC Agribusiness is informed by the National Curriculum Framework (NCF).

Unit 1: Plant and Soil Science

Horticulture consists of the science, technology and business involved in the cultivation of fruit, vegetables, grapevines, olives, and other similar crops. Candidates will be introduced to plant morphology and life cycles. In this unit candidates will also understand the basics of horticultural production and trends. In addition, candidates will become familiar with plant nutrient requirements and fertilisation together with the common soil types, the basics of soil sampling and simple soil analysis techniques.

Unit 2: Aquatic and Land Based Production

The objective of this unit is to build upon the land-based production knowledge, skills and competences covered in Unit 1 and introduce new concepts on aquatic production. Through this unit candidates will be introduced to basic fish care techniques. They will be given an overview of the morphology and nutritional requirements of different fish species together with fish diseases and disorders, their prevention, and cure. Furthermore, in this unit candidates will become familiar with the major physiological processes of plants such as germination, photosynthesis and transpiration. The major tasks required for vegetable cultivation and propagation will also be tackled.

Unit 3: Rabbit Care and Genetics

The breeding of rabbits is considered as a key agribusiness sector in Malta. Rabbit is an important ingredient in Maltese cuisine and also a very popular pet. This unit will assist candidates to become familiar with the care required in the breeding of rabbits. An insight of the origin, history and process of domestication of rabbits shall be provided. Candidates will explore the requirements for breeding rabbits in terms of feed, water and micro-climatic conditions. They shall be exposed to specific housing requirements and equipment, and will also be guided in considering the economic significance and production features of different breeds and hybrids of rabbits. Through this unit, candidates shall be exposed to rabbit morphology, reproduction, physiology, genetics, specific diseases, disorders and their treatment

At the end of the programme, the student will be able to: 

• Demonstrate an understanding of the life cycle and morphologies of different organs of crop/ornamental plants’ roots and shoot systems
• Demonstrate an understanding of Health and Safety in agribusiness
• Undertake a season’s growth of different groups of vegetables
• Apply a suitable fertiliser using the appropriate technique
• Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and methods used for soil analysis
• Demonstrate an understanding of the soil factors which contribute to healthy plant growth
• Demonstrate an understanding of the morphology and nutritional requirements of different fish species
• Undertake proper fish husbandry tasks to prevent and cure diseases and correct disorders
• Describe the main processes of plant physiology
• Conduct post-harvesting processes according to marketing standards
• Explain the propagation requirements and growth media for different plants
• Demonstrate an understanding of the biology and genetic principles of rabbit production
• Maintain the right environment for rabbit husbandry
• Use adequate preventive and curative measures for healthy rabbit growth
• Explain the reproductive phases and breeding of rabbits
• Demonstrate an understanding of the ways rabbits can be processed to enhance revenues of a rabbit farm