Crop losses due to pests and diseases account for about one-third of agricultural production costs in terms of chemicals, equipment and manpower. However, skills in identification of pests, diseases and available management strategies are largely lacking. There is, therefore, an established need to train manpower in all aspects of crop protection. This diploma course is designed for staff in the private sector, government and nongovernmental organizations in the agricultural industry: agricultural extension workers, farm
managers and field technologists, staff in agricultural/education institutions, staff engaged in crop protection research, pesticide delivery service, and as a bridging course for high school graduates wishing to pursue degree programmes.