Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture and hydroponic technology to grow both fish and plants together in a closed-loop system. While aquaponics can play a role in increasing food security, it may also be a potential educational tool because of its interdisciplinary nature and required technological skill set. With aquaponics, students could conduct hands-on activities involving chemistry, physics and biology to solidify their understanding of a range of theories. Beyond standard science, technology, engineering and mathematic principles, aquaponics may be related to projects on sustainability, environmental science, agriculture, the food system, health, economics, business and marketing. The interdisciplinary nature of aquaponics may make it an appealing tool for education, yet that same aspect may also make an aquaponics system challenging to implement and manage. Educators require appropriate training materials and training courses for their particular educational settings. Stellenbosch University and its industry partners aim to develop digital and interactive aquaponics study programmes for South Africa and across the SADC region by way of a hybrid teaching approach comprising of pre-academic online courses, scientific graduate studies, live practical training workshops and accompanying formats such as virtual workshops.
It is the firm belief of the partners that aquaponics will play an essential role in supplying the planet, particular semi-arid and arid areas, with healthy and safe fresh produce and that aquaponics as a farming technology is less harmful to the environment compared to conventional agriculture. The partners are convinced that; people make companies and with the cooperation inspired and committed to helping all stakeholders of the evolving aquaponics industry to develop their highest potentials. With the right knowledge of modern aquaponics growing techniques and business practices, local aquaponics farmers will act as catalyst in the exponentially growing local food economy. The purpose of the cooperation is to educate and empower them to make that happen.
The Education Programme aims to substantially contribute to the development of a future-oriented, ecological, sustainable and economically thriving farming era allowing for the circular plant and aquatic food production in harmony with nature.