Requirements to register

• 2 years theory-based courses consisting of 8 modules[1], or
• 5 Modules for the SAGMA General Course[2]
• Logbook and Portfolio of Evidence system.
• 6-months compulsory preparation for Trade Test assessment.
• May/November EISA examination (additional six months).
• Quality Council for Trades and Occupation (QCTO)/SAQA accredited Certificate.

[1] Students will be issued an NQF 5 Occupational Certificate only after achieving the minimum pass mark of the EISA examination. 

[2] A student who completes SAGMA’s theoretical courses (Modules 1 to 5) and meets all other assessment requirements (Trade Test) will be issued a Certificate of Completion.

To enrol in the SAGMA courses, specific requirements must be met.

• Minimum of Grade 12 (Matric) certificate. Proof of qualification is required when registering.
• Employment contract with a maize or wheat milling company.
• Must have access to either a maize and/or wheat mill or work in a milling environment with available mentorship from the Head Miller or Training Officer.
• Good knowledge of English (written and spoken).

The wheat and maize courses are separate technology courses and separate certificates for the wheat and maize courses in milling technology will be issued to students who complete them. 

 The medium of course material and tuition is English only.

This qualification provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies for individuals to become efficient Millers who can effectively monitor and control the mechanical and operational efficiency of wheat and maize milling production facilities.

As a Miller, the student will learn how to manage the equipment, plant, wheat and maize milling, and related resources, ensuring that they operate at their optimal level to achieve maximum production efficiency.  They will also be responsible for overseeing the bulk handling and storage of wheat/maize products within a safe working environment, adhering to strict food safety requirements.

The course will provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles of milling, including the chemistry and physical properties of grains, milling operations, and the various milling equipment used in the industry.  The students will also learn about quality control, including the analysis of raw materials, monitoring and controlling the milling process and testing the final products for compliance with industry standards.

The course will cover critical topics such as hygiene and sanitation, food safety, and health and safety regulations, which are essential for ensuring a safe working environment.  Students will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate risks, prevent contamination, and maintain a hygienic and safe working environment.

Overall, this qualification aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to become competent Millers who can effectively operate and manage wheat and maize milling production facilities while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

A qualified student will be able to:

• Receive, grade and store raw material in bulk or bags (NQF Level 5)
• Prepare grain for the milling process (NQF Level 5)
• Manage and control the milling process (NQF Level 5)
• Establish and control the quality of milled products (NQF Level 4)
• Blend or mix and store semi-finished products according to product specifications (NQF Level 4)
• Monitor and control the packing process of the finished product for distribution (NQF Level 4)
• Maintain the serviceability of milling machines and equipment throughout the milling process (NQF Level 4)