Busitema University

This course introduces students to the concept of agriculture and in particular factors that affect plant and animal distribution in the various agro-ecological zones and farming systems of Uganda. The course also provides basic knowledge on the roles of physiological parameters in relation to crop yield, the factors that influence the life span of crops and provides means of improving upon crop yield.
 

Course Objectives

• To introduce students to the concepts of agriculture and agronomy.
• To explain the role of agriculture in economic development.
• To explain the different farming systems and agro ecological zones of Uganda
• To explain the importance of physiological parameters in relation to crop yield
• To explain how to improve and optimize crop yields under given ecological conditions.

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students should be able to;

• Describe the role of agriculture in economic development
• To describe the key principles and practices that must be followed for increased crop production
• Explain the different farming systems in Uganda and Africa in general and ways of identifying each 
• Describe the different ecological zones of Uganda and factors that enable agro-ecological zoning
• Explain effects of climate on crop and livestock and livestock distribution
• Identify the different yield components for different crops
• Explain the factors that influence the life span of crops
• Use the different parameters  in measuring crop growth
• Modify growth of crops to improve yield