SCOPE OF INFORMATION
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| Short Description of the SLP: |
This will be a basic introductory programme to teach participants the theory of cattle reproduction, estrus synchronisation, management and also the practical side of handling equipment, animal handling and artificial insemination procedure. The theory covered in this programme will give an in-depth understanding on why and how one would artificially inseminate a cow. The participants will gain knowledge on the anatomy of the reproductive organs and how to handle them not to injure the cow. Management and planning of a reproduction protocol will be discussed. The final day will be a practical day where participants will first practice on reproductive organs from slaughter animals as well as dummies. Thereafter, participants will be taught how to thaw frozen semen, load the AI pistolet and finally how to handle and artificially inseminate a cow. |
| Admission Requirements: |
At least Grade 10 – NQF level 2 with English as FAL or HL. Participants must have some basic knowledge in cattle management and production. At least 1 year experience on a farm, either as an employer, employee or student. |
| Learning Duration: |
3 days |
| Costs: |
To be confirmed upon request |
| Language of Tuition: | English |
| Mode of Delivery: |
Face to face |
| Campus: |
Bloemfontein Campus, but venue will be at Grootvlei correctional services facilities. |
| Learning Level: |
2 |
| Dates of Programme: |
To be confirmed upon request |
| Nature of Programme: |
Competence |
| Programme Structure: |
Learning unit 1: Introduction, history and importance of AI Introduction of the history and development of AI; the importance of AI to improve reproductive efficiency on a farm.
Learning unit 2: Legislation around AI in South Africa Discussion of the Animal Improvement act of 1994.
Learning unit 3: Advantages and disadvantages of AI The advantages and disadvantages of using AI on a farm to assist farmers in taking informed decisions.
Learning unit 4: The estrus cycle and estrus observation Physiology of the estrus cycle and estrus observation on a farm.
Learning unit 5: Breeding seasons and breeding practices Different breeding seasons for different production systems with the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Learning unit 6: Anatomy of female reproductive system Theory and practical on the basic Anatomy of the cow reproductive system.
Learning unit 7: Record keeping Importance and examples of record keeping on a dairy farm.
Learning unit 8: Animal handling: Safety precautions Animal handling, how to treat animals in a crush, safety precautions in order to protect the animal handler and ethical and humane treatment of animals.
Learning unit 9: Equipment needed for AI The equipment needed for successful AI; how to load the AI gun, how to handle the dewar flask, frozen semen and thawing of semen.
Learning unit 10: Estrus synchronisation The theoretical basis of estrus synchronisation and the most practical protocol.
Learning unit 11: AI practice Practicing the AI technique on organs, an AI model and live animals. |
| Assessments: |
Written test and practical demonstration. |