Department of IRRIGATION ENGINEERING

INTRODUCTION

The development, growth and expansion of agricultural production in Zimbabwe and the region is a challenge which can no longer be ignored in light of need for food security for the growing population. Reliance on natural rainfall patterns to provide the required amount of water, at the right time, need to be replaced by the more certain, precise and appropriate methods of water application that will ensure good crop yields, quality and protection against famine for the nation and the region.
 

Aims

The Bachelor of Technology (Hon) Irrigation Engineering programme. The programme is designed to give a comprehensive treatment of the agronomic and the engineering principles of irrigation, with the aim of improving on the use of the dwindling water resources through designing more efficient, sustainable and optimized irrigation systems. The main thrust of the programme is to train and produce seasoned and well-equipped irrigation engineers/practitioners who will combine the technical, managerial and entrepreneurial aptitude to address and resolve the developmental problems facing the nation, and region.

Qualifications for entry to programme

Normal Entry:
  Candidates should:-

Passes in at least five (5) subjects at GCE Ordinary Level at Grade C or better inclusive of English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject. Good Advanced Level passes in Mathematics and Physics plus any one of the following: Chemistry, Geography, Technical Graphics/Technical Drawing and Computer Science. Acceptable equivalents such as a National Diploma in Agriculture, Civil, Land Surveying or Water Engineering from recognized institutions. Any other qualification deemed equivalent and has been approved by the Senate of the University.

Programmes on Offer

  Bachelor Of Technology Honours Degree In Irrigation Engineering.
 

DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME

In accordance with the General Regulations of the University, the Bachelor Of Technology Honours degree in Irrigation Engineering shall be covered over a period of four and half years. The programme includes at least eight months of supervised Industrial Attachment during the sixth and seventh semesters. The assessment of the students on Industrial Attachment will be carried out in accordance with the General Academic Regulations on Attachment.
 

Career opportunities

Graduates from this programme can be employed in the private and public sectors. They can be employed as irrigation engineers in irrigation companies, Non Governmental Organisations, parastatals and in commercial farms and estates; as extension officers in irrigation, soil and water conservation. They can also pursue careers as lecturers in tertiary agricultural institutions. They can also pursue higher degrees from this university or other institutions to become academics and researchers to serve the nation and the region.

Graduates will thoroughly be equipped and prepared to set up their own irrigation companies or run their own Consultancy/Technical Advisory Services to local and regional farmers.