Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences (BSc)

1.0 PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME

To promote the productive and sustainable management of fisheries and water resources and in so doing contribute towards sustainable food security, self-reliance and overall wellbeing of the entire Zimbabwean population and SADC region.

2.0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

     2.1 Normal Entry 

2.1.1. These will normally be as specified in the Faculty Regulations.

2.1.2   Five ‘O’ Level subjects including English and any 2 ‘A’ Level subjects with at least one science subject from the following: Biology, Chemistry, Agriculture, Geography, Physics. 

    2.2 Special Entry

A person who has obtained a degree in natural (life) sciences of this or another university or degree awarding institution. Or a person who has obtained a university or an institution of similar status, academic qualifications (other than degrees) in natural sciences (life) acceptable to Senate, a person who has obtained an appropriate number of subjects at an approved examination and has subsequently passed an intermediate or equivalent examination at a university acceptable to Senate.

   2.3 Mature Entry

For mature entry, shall be persons who are at least 25 years of age for males and 23 years for females on the first day of the academic year in which admission is sought and who are eligible for normal entry or special entry but have at least five ‘O’ level subjects including English and Mathematics (or equivalents) and must have demonstrated potential suitability for University studies by virtue of their attainments and/or relevant work experience. They should have completed their fulltime school or college education at least five years before the start of the academic year in which admission is sought. The applicants may be required to attend interviews or special tests to assess their suitability for admission to the bachelor’s degree studies. 

3.0 PROGRAMME CHARACTERISTICS

Areas of study: Fish biology, Fish nutrition, Aquatic animal health and biosecurity, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Parasitology, Water Quality, Fish breeding and reproductive technologies, Ecology, Biochemistry, Statistics, Conservation, Aquaculture, Limnology, Fisheries management, Aquaculture systems designs and engineering, GIS and remote sensing.

4.0 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER EDUCATION

Graduates can be employed in the following areas:

1. In the private sector – consultants and specialists, operations, administration and technical managers.
2. In government – extension and research officers and consultants.
3. In academic institutions – lecturers and consultants.
4. Self-employment – farmers and consultants.
5. Students can also further their studies in the following fields: Fish nutrition, Aquaculture, Fisheries, Aquatic ecology, Biotechnology and Natural resources management.

5.0 PROGRAMME DELIVERY

This shall be in the form of lectures, tutorials, group presentations, practical activities, and visits to farms, lakes, rivers and agro-processing companies.

6.0 LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Analyse and apply core scientific principles in biology, ecology, and husbandry to explain the functioning of aquaculture and fisheries systems.
2. Perform standard technical procedures for water quality management, fish health assessment, and stock management in simulated and real-world production settings.
3. Diagnose production problems by systematically evaluating environmental, biological, and operational data from case studies and field scenarios.
4. Formulate sustainable, evidence-based solutions to fish production challenges, justifying decisions with reference to scientific literature, economic viability, and environmental impact.
5. Design a comprehensive plan for an efficient fish production system (e.g., recirculating aquaculture, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture), specifying operational parameters, resource needs, and a business model.
6. Propose a novel improvement to a fish production practice or system by synthesizing research findings and emerging technologies, using strategies such as the Blue Ocean framework to identify value innovation.
7. Execute a sustained, independent research project (honours thesis) that investigates a novel question in fisheries or aquaculture, analysing original or existing data to generate new knowledge and communicating the findings to peers and community stakeholders.
8. Defend decisions and innovations in fish production based on ethical principles, a commitment to 

7.0 GENERAL PROVISIONS

During the same period, students will be expected to carry out a research project.

7.1 A student shall be enrolled for at least Five (5) modules at any time during the semester, except for Level 3 semesters.

7.2 Students can include in their programme of study, modules offered by other Departments.

7.3          Students may be allowed to change registration for modules taken in any semester only during the first two weeks of registration.

8.0 PROGRAMME ASSESSMENT

8.1 Research Project

8.1.1 For the research project assessment, each student will present a dissertation and an oral presentation on the research project. 

8.1.2 The dissertation and the oral presentation will contribute 70% and 30%, respectively, to the final mark for the research project.

     8.2 For the assessment of modules and Work-Related Learning

           Refer to Section 5 of the Faculty Regulations.

9.0 PROVISION FOR PROGRESSION 

      Refer to Section 6 of Faculty Regulations

10.0 FAILURE TO SATISFY EXAMINERS

Refer to Section 7 of the General Regulations.

11.0 GRADING AND DEGREE CLASSIFICATION

Refer to Section 9 of the Faculty Regulations.

12.0 DEGREE WEIGHTING 

Refer to Section 10 of Faculty Regulations.

13.0 THE PROGRAMME SRUCTURE

Level 1 Semester 1

Code Module Description MBK       Credits

  Agricultural practice1 6

Basic communication skills 12

Introduction to information technology 12

Introduction to biochemistry Y 12

Introduction to microbiology Y 12

Principles of ecology* 12

Level 1 Semester 2

Code Module Description MBK       Credits

Agricultural practice 2 6

Cell and molecular biology Y         12

Introduction to statistics Y               12

Introduction to genetics Y                  12

Limnology               Y 12

Ichthyology               Y 12

Level 2 Semester 1

Code Module Description MBK       Credits

Gender studies 12

Entrepreneurship 12

Statistical methods and experimental designs Y 12

Fish breeding and reproductive technologies     Y 12

Fisheries governance and regulations/fisheries 

Laws and Policies Y 12

2 Semester 2

Code Module Description MBK     Credits

Fish nutrition and feed technology               Y 12

Geographical information systems and remote sensing 12

Integrated watershed management* 12

Fish and crocodile health and welfare       Y 12

Fishing techniques and technology Y 12

Level 3 Semester 1 and 2: Work Related Learning

Work related learning preliminary report Y

Work related learning report Y 45

Academic supervisor’s report Y 30

  Employer’s assessment report Y 45

Level 4 Semester 1

Code Module Description MBK     Credits

Aquaculture and environment 12

Marine ecology /community fisheries Y 12

Aquaculture systems design and engineering Y 12

Aquaponics and hydroponics Y 12

Fisheries management Y 12

Fish hatchery management 12

Level 4 Semester 2

Code Module Description MBK     Credits

Research project     Y 24

Fish post-harvest technologies   Y 12

Fisheries economics 12

Aquaculture management Y 12

Agricultural extension* 12

*Optional module 

MODULE SYNOPSES

AGPR101 Practices 1

This module gives first-year students in the field of Agriculture, a broad understanding of the fundamental entrepreneurial skills essential in starting a farming business, screening of opportunities, developing a business concept and translating ideas into business opportunities. The module will also cover certain animal production enterprise such as ruminant production systems (beef, dairy, small ruminants); non-ruminant production systems (broilers, layers, piggery and rabbitry) and intensive wildlife management enterprises. A field trip to an animal farm shall take place during each semester.

Basic communication skills

The module aims at assisting students to achieve full academic potential through equipping them with the necessary communication skills essential for their degree studies. It aims to equip students with the fundamental principles and practical techniques of effective communication. The focus is on developing self-awareness, building confidence, and enhancing proficiency in both interpersonal and professional interactions. Students learn to communicate clearly, persuasively, and appropriately in a variety of contexts, laying a critical foundation for academic success and future career readiness. to achieve this the module covers fundamentals of communication, interpersonal communication skills, public speaking and presentation skills, professional writing skills and communication in context.

Introduction to information technology

The module Introduces students to uses of information technology, computer hardware and software. Data processing, computer networks and internet, network typologies, the internet, uses of the internet, E-business, word processors and spread sheets, information systems, security and ethical challenges in information technology.

Introduction to biochemistry

The module covers energy flows in biological systems; Structure of cells; Stereochemistry: positional, geometrical and optical isomerism; Chemistry of carbohydrates: classification, structure, functions, mobilization and transport; Chemistry of proteins: amino acids their classification, structure, functions, mobilization and transport; Chemistry and functions of nucleic acids; and DNA and RNA, their functions and roles in life processes. Simple lipids. 

Introduction to microbiology

The module covers characteristics of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells: micro-organisms viz. Bacteria, Fungi, Viruses, Viroid’s and Protozoa; Classification, morphology, nutrition, growth, replication and metabolism; Micro-organisms as agents of diseases (pathogens); Use of micro-organisms in industrial microbiology: cheese, beer, wine making, and in silage making; Immunology; Techniques of isolating and identifying micro-organisms; and Microscopy.

Agricultural Practices 2

In addition to entrepreneurial skills learnt in AGPR101, students learn to finance a farming business, do cash flow budgets and apply for a successful bank loan. Production enterprises include production of maize, wheat, leafy vegetables, onions, tomatoes, field beans, tobacco, cotton, soyabean, citrus, mango and banana. Students also are exposed to production of major flowers e.g. carnations and roses. Students are exposed to aspects of marketing, human resources, pricing, government policies and taxation. Students visit a crop production farm during semester.

Introduction to genetics

Students learn the basic principles of cell division: mitosis and meiosis; Nucleic acids, replication and protein synthesis; Mendelian principles: segregation and independent assortment. Environmental effects and gene expression; Gene interaction and lethality; sex determination and sex linkage; Gene mutation and induced genetic change (biotechnology); Gene structure and regulation; and Population genetics, genetic biodiversity of agriculturally important plants and animals and conservation of genetic resources. Computing Relationships and the inbreeding coefficient, uses of inbreeding. Quantitative genetics: the quantitative traits model, components of phenotypic and genetic variance and their estimation, genotype value, additive genetic or breeding value, dominance genetic value, epistatic genetic value, influence of selection, influence of inbreeding, the selection response, heritability and repeatability, genotype *environment interaction, phenotypic, genetic and environmental correlations.

Introduction to statistics

Fundamentals of basic statistics and probability theory are learnt in this module. The following are covered Introduction to statistics: definition, uses of statistics in research, business, tourism and agriculture; Probability: multiplicative law, addition law, conditional probability, tree diagram, law of total probability; Probability distributions: random variables, discrete, continuous, binomial distribution, poison distribution, normal distribution; Measures of central tendency and dispersion: mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range, variance, standard deviation, standard error of the mean; Sampling technique: simple random, stratified, cluster, systematic; Data types, presentation and summarization techniques; Tables, graphs, charts; Regression and correlation: regression parameters, correlation coefficient, coefficient of determination; and Simple statistical inference: hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, t-tests, chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA.

Cell and molecular biology

The module covers cell components and their functions, Cell division and control mechanisms, Cell cycle, Genes and chromosomes, DNA and RNA structures, Enzymes of DNA replication, DNA repair mechanisms, Transcription, Translation, Gene regulation and operon theory, Mutagenesis. This module provides a comprehensive foundation in the core principles of cell and molecular biology, with a specific emphasis on applications within fisheries and aquaculture. Students will explore the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the mechanisms of gene expression, and the intricate processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation. The curriculum extends to recombinant DNA technology, covering essential techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and gene cloning. A key focus will be on applying these concepts to address real-world challenges, including the molecular basis of disease, the genetic drivers of growth and reproduction, and the use of molecular markers for population genetics and selective breeding programs. This knowledge is crucial for advancing sustainable aquaculture, biosecurity, and the conservation of aquatic genetic resources.

Limnology 

Limnology is the study of inland waters – lakes, streams, and reservoirs.  The topics that are covered in this module include:  the origin of lakes; the importance of chemical and physical properties of water; the biogeochemical cycling of elements (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, iron and silicon); the ecology of aquatic organisms (bacteria, phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos, macrophytes and fish); the pollution and eutrophication of freshwaters; a comparison of lake, stream and reservoir ecosystems; paleolimnology; food-chains and food-webs; energy flow; case studies of whole lakes.  

Ichthyology

This module provides students with an introduction to the biology and taxonomy of fishes.  During lecture sessions, students are introduced to the taxonomy, major groups, general morphology, physiology, and natural history of fishes.  During lab sessions, students will gain “hands-on”, practical knowledge of material learned in lecture.  Specifically, students become familiar with fish morphology and anatomy, learn fish taxonomy and fish identification (emphasis on regional freshwater fishes), and are exposed to local aquatic habitats and their associated fish fauna.

Gender Studies

The module empowers the students with knowledge and skills that enable them to be gender sensitive in the university, workplace and in all their social interactions. Topics covered include, Understanding Gender, Theories of Gender Inequalities, Historical Development of Gender, Gender Analysis, and Gender Issues in Zimbabwe, Redressing Gender Imbalances, Empowerment and Strategies for creating a gender responsive environment.  Every student must pass the module in order to graduate.

Statistical methods and experimental designs

Module introduces students to application of statistics in fisheries research by covering the following aspects: The Whys and Wherefores of Statistics; Descriptive statistics; Probability and Probability distribution; Sampling and sampling Distribution; Experimental and Quasi Experimental Designs; Hypothesis Testing (t-test, F-test, Chi-squared test); Linear Correlation and regression; Further Regression Analysis; Non-parametric statistical methods; Further Aspects of design and Analysis; Additional techniques (Bioassay and Diagnostic Analysis). Data entry, analysis and interpretation using statistical packages (STATA, GENSTAT, R and EPI Info) for all designs: Regression and Correlation. Fitting statistics in research proposal and dissertation write-ups.

Entrepreneurship 

The module looks at business development, barriers encountered, and issues related to marketing, human resources management, pricing, government policies, taxation of businesses. Case studies, visits to business premises and presentations by entrepreneurs will be used to understand the running of small business. The preparation of business plans will also be covered.

Fish breeding and reproductive technologies

Breeding technologies: The lectures answer the following questions-What is Genetic Variation? How can Genetic Variation be Measured? Genetic Structure in Natural Populations, Genetic Considerations in the Hatchery, Artificial Selection in the Hatchery, Triploids and Beyond: Why Manipulate Ploidy? Genetic Engineering in Aquaculture. Reproductive technologies; Development of Reproductive System in Fish, Diversity of Fish Reproduction, Environment and Hormonal Control of Fish Reproduction, Hormonal Induction of Final Oocyte Maturation, Ovulation and Spermiation, Induced Spawning, Early Life History of Fish, Methods of Fish Breeding and Broodstock Management, Structure of Fish Spermatozoa and Preservation of Gametes, Spawning Techniques for Common Freshwater Aquaculture Species.

Fish nutrition and feed technology

The module deals with different aspects of fish nutrition and feed technology. Nutrients required include proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. The course covers the following: nutritional requirement of cultivable fish depending on the various factors like type of fish species /size/age/metabolic state etc.; nutritional requirements by different fish species; fish feed formulation and manufacturing of various forms of feeds and their description and use; different feed additives like binders, antioxidants, enzymes, pigments, growth promoters and feed stimulants. An account on feed storage, use of preservatives and antioxidants gives an insight into importance of preserving nutrient value of feeds during storage. The details on feed evaluation in terms of feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency ratio (FER), protein efficiency ratio (PER), net protein utilization and biological value. The course delineates various feeding devices and methods of feeding the fishes. Non-conventional feed ingredients and anti-nutritional factors, different digestive enzymes, feed digestibility and factors affecting digestibility.  Nutritional deficiency diseases of fish in brief.

Geographic information systems and remote sensing

The module covers the following aspects: Introduction to GIS; Software and Hardware: GIS Applications; Sources of GIS data; Global Positioning Systems; Introduction to Remote Sensing; Imagery and Photogrammetry; GIS Acquisition and Platforms; Electromagnetic spectrum; Spectral signatures/patterns of objects: water, soil, vegetation; Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI); Raster and Vector; GIS Data Input; Digitizing; Data quality; Data Output; Geo-databases; Usage of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) Technologies in Cartography; Map projections; Geo-processing; Data queries; Spatial Data analysis; and Cartographic modelling.

Integrated watershed management 

The module deals with watershed definitions; why a watershed approach; watershed response to land use; watershed analysis approach; history of watershed management. Methods, Techniques and Tools: stream focus; land focus, human focus, integrated focus; approaches; environmental review; ecological risk assessment. Hydrology: the hydrological cycle; precipitation; evaporation and evapotranspiration; storage; runoff; water balance; Sediment Dynamics: sediment cycle; sediment sources; transport processes; deposition. Water Quality: water quality monitoring; monitoring strategy; sources of contaminants; water quality indicators; water quality regulations. Aquatic Biota: habitats and their components; organisms; processes; food webs and energy flow; habitat evaluation and assessment. Land Use Issues: agriculture; forestry; mining; the urban environment; reservoirs and hydropower developments; stream buffer zones; wetlands; groundwater. Governance and Institutional Framework: governance structure; problems facing governance; evolution of governance towards sustainability; innovative approaches towards governance. A Community Based Approach to Watershed Management: introduction; genesis and organization of watershed community groups; planning, preparation and action. Conclusions: management philosophies; traditional and new approaches; what is needed; the challenge

Fish and crocodile health and welfare

The module introduces students to the main groups of parasitic invertebrates and protozoa that affect fishes. It will also acquaint them with both basic and latest information in the field of diseases in various species of fish, caused by infectious and non-infectious agents: viral diseases, viral neoplastic diseases, bacterial, fungal, parasitic diseases in fish, immunosuppressive diseases, environmental diseases and technological problems in aquaculture. Students will learn new methods of prevention and therapy of fish diseases in natural and intensive system of culture.

Fishing techniques and technology

The module provides the student with a broad overview of the human system of fisheries and an understanding of both the harvest and post-harvest sectors of the fishing industry. On completion of this module, students will be able to: describe the components of the fishing industry, explain the capture process of the major fishing gears and methods used to harvest fisheries resources in Zimbabwe and globally. These include passive and active gears; Passive Gear: hooks and lines; set lines, longlines; traps and pots; weirs and trap nets; entangling; nets (gillnets, trammel nets, stationary lift nets); Active Gear: trolling; jigging; seining (beach seines, boat seines, purse seines and ring nets); bottom trawling (pair trawling, single boat trawling); Electronic equipment. Advantages and disadvantages of each gear will be discussed.

Work related learning preliminary report

This module assesses the preliminary report submitted by the students during the time they are learning at the workplace in relation to the degree program.

Work related learning report

This module assesses the reports submitted by the students during the time they are learning at the workplace in relation to the degree program.

Academic supervisors report

This module is based on the academic’s field visits to the employers and assesses the effectiveness of the students in the work environment.

Employer’s assessment report

This module assesses the role of the students in the work environment based on the employers’ assessment of the students.

Marine ecology and community fisheries

This interdisciplinary module provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and managing fisheries through the integrated lens of marine ecology and social science. It begins by establishing the core ecological principles governing marine communities, including trophic dynamics, species interactions, habitat connectivity, and ecosystem resilience. These principles are then directly applied to the context of fisheries, examining population assessment methods, fishing gear impacts, and the ecosystem effects of overexploitation, including bycatch and habitat degradation.

The module then shifts to the “community” dimension, exploring the socio-ecological systems of small-scale, community-based fisheries. Students will critically engage with co-management frameworks, community-led conservation initiatives (such as Locally Managed Marine Areas – LMMAs), and the role of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in sustainable resource management. Key challenges such as climate change, market pressures, and governance conflicts are examined.

Learning is reinforced through problem-based learning, analysis of global case studies, and often a field trip or practical data analysis project, equipping students with the skills to contribute to the sustainable governance of marine resources.

Aquaculture and environment

The module covers water quality management: The purpose of the course is to develop understanding of water quality criteria, standards, impacts of water pollutants and treatment methods. It focuses on; defining the term water quality; parameters of water quality (physical, chemical and biological); testing procedures for each water quality parameter and interpretation; monitoring and water quality standards in Zimbabwe. Pollution control systems in Zimbabwe. Explore how aquaculture activities interface with the environment. This involves detailed environmental and social impact assessment of aquaculture projects.

Aquaculture systems design and engineering

The module covers the different aquaculture production systems. Engineering aspects cover the following aspects: site selection, soil and its properties, layout planning of fishpond, construction of fishpond, calculation of area and volume, earth work calculations, hatcheries infrastructural facilities, Design of hatcheries, Raceway culture.

Aquaponics and hydroponics 

This module provides a comprehensive scientific and technical foundation in two key water-based agricultural technologies: Hydroponics and Aquaponics. As pressure on land and water resources intensifies, these systems offer sustainable solutions for food production. The curriculum first establishes the core principles of hydroponic systems, including nutrient solution chemistry, system configurations (NFT, DWC, Media Beds), and plant physiology.

The module then focuses on the integration of hydroponics with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to form aquaponics. Students will delve into the critical biogeochemical processes, particularly the nitrification cycle, that underpin these symbiotic ecosystems. Key topics include system design and engineering, balancing fish feed inputs with plant nutrient demands, integrated water quality management, and troubleshooting common problems. The economic viability, environmental benefits, and real-world applications of these systems are critically evaluated. Through practical sessions, system design projects, and case studies, students will gain the hands-on skills necessary to develop and manage these innovative production systems.

Fish hatchery management 

Students gain knowledge and understanding of the practical and theoretical concepts on: Importance of bio-security measures. Infrastructure requirements for the hatchery such as ponds, tanks, water supply systems, and aeration systems. Specific facilities for different stages of fish development, including nursery ponds, brood stock ponds, and conditioning ponds. Brood Stock Management: Techniques for maintaining healthy and genetically diverse brood stock. Importance of pedigree records and genetic management to prevent declines in stock quality.

Strategies to enhance fecundity, hatch rates, and growth rates while minimizing disease susceptibility.

Operations and Maintenance: Daily management practices to ensure optimal conditions for fish growth.

Feeding and nutrition plans tailored to different species and life stages. Monitoring and maintaining water quality to prevent disease outbreaks. Fish Health and Disease Management: Common diseases affecting hatchery fish and their prevention. Treatment protocols and bio-security measures to control disease spread. Importance of regular health assessments and quarantine procedures. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance:

Ensuring hatchery operations comply with environmental regulations. Sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact. Keeping up to date with technological advancements and regulatory changes. 

Research project

Explore research issues, research area selection, research concept development, research proposal writing, data collection and organization, data analyses and statistical indication, data interpretation and presentation, prototyping; presentation of research findings; research project write up. Students must and should collect data whilst at attachment so that they learn to solve real life problems and for easy of data collection logistics. The student must have a topic in Part 3.1 and should have collected data by the end of the part 3.2 and must be writing the project in Parts 4.1 and 4.2. The research projects are community-engaged research as a primary option for the final year project. Students’ projects address real problem identified by community partners.

Fisheries management 

This module provides an overview of the principles and practices for managing fish stocks and fisheries. It covers key concepts including stock assessment, maximum sustainable yield (MSY), and the ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF). Students will explore management tools such as catch limits, gear restrictions, and marine protected areas, while addressing the ecological, economic, and social challenges of achieving sustainable fisheries. This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of sustainable fisheries management. It explores the biological foundations of fish populations, including growth, recruitment, and mortality, and how these underpin stock assessment models. The curriculum critically examines the primary management tools, from input and output controls to rights-based approaches, and the challenges of regulating shared stocks. A significant focus is placed on the human dimension, addressing the critical roles of economics, policymaking, and stakeholder engagement in achieving management objectives. Through case studies of both successful and failed fisheries, the module develops students’ skills to analyze real-world problems and formulate robust, science-based management plans that balance ecological sustainability with socio-economic needs.

Aquaculture management

This module provides a comprehensive exploration of the scientific, technical, and business principles essential for managing modern aquaculture operations. Students will delve into the core production cycles of key species, covering hatchery, nursery, and grow-out phases. The curriculum emphasizes critical technical aspects including recirculating and pond system design, water quality management, fish nutrition and feeding strategies, and biosecurity and health management.

Beyond production, the module focuses on the application of business and economic principles to ensure operational viability. This includes feasibility analysis, production planning, financial management, and marketing. A central theme is integrating sustainability and environmental stewardship into decision-making, addressing issues such as resource use, effluent management, and certification schemes. The aim is to equip students with the holistic skills needed to manage aquaculture enterprises that are productive, profitable, and environmentally responsible.

Fish post-harvest technologies 

 The module covers the following: Preservation methods and principles; Traditional methods of fish preservation (salting, drying, marinating, fermentation and smoking); Hurdle technology in fish preservation; Extrusion; Fish protein concentrates, Fish protein hydrolysate, Fish meal and fish oil; Fish by-products (Isinglass, leather, fish glue, Pearl essence, Beche-de-mer). This covers all aspects of biotechnology, biological, biochemical aspects of fisheries post-harvest

Fisheries governance laws and regulations

The Global Challenge: The crisis of overfishing, habitat loss, and IUU fishing as a driver for governance. International Framework: The foundational role of UNCLOS, the UN Fish Stocks Agreement, and the FAO’s Code of Conduct. Regional Management: The structure and function of Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs). National Policy Tools: Analysis of licenses, quotas (TACs), gear restrictions, closed areas, and Rights-Based Fishing (ITQs). Core Principles: Operationalizing the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF), the Precautionary Principle, and co-management. Contemporary Issues: Combating IUU fishing, addressing climate change impacts, and navigating the social and economic equity dimensions of regulations.

Fisheries economics 

This module integrates knowledge from other units in the course with new concepts around the topics of government policy, planning and costing of production, facility design, farm management, product development & quality, marketing, animal welfare and sanitary regulations, to provide students with an appreciation and understanding of regulatory and commercial aspects of production. Fish value chain assessment, Lectures and tutorials are strengthened with guest speakers from industry, government and the business sectors. This module uses the formulation of a business plan as a core focus for the activities. The module covers the aspects of fish value chains and fisheries economics

Agricultural Extension

The module seeks to help students in career planning, preparation, entry, adjustment and advancement in agriculture education and extension related careers. The areas covered include the history of agricultural extension in Zimbabwe, definition of extension, extension ethics, communication skills, mass media, kinesis, art of listening and conducting successful meetings. Students are also taught extension methods and training programme planning, policy in agricultural extension, farmer participation in extension planning, monitoring and evaluation, research extension linkages, agricultural extension change management and support, Donor organisation in agricultural development and extension and privatisation of extension services.