SAGMA General Course

Southern African Grain Milling Academy | SAGMA > SAGMA General Course

SELF-STUDY COURSES (E-LEARNING)

SAGMA does not offer in-person training. Instead, we provide comprehensive Learning Guides to support your self-study as part of the certificate programme.
Please note: The content and design of these guides are protected by copyright and remain the property of the Southern African Grain Milling Academy. Only registered candidates who have purchased a Learning Guide are permitted to use it, and no student will be allowed to sit for the exam without proof of registration for our courses.

SAGMA GENERAL COURSE

Overview

This non-accredited course, previously known as the GMF Course, is ideal for learners seeking industry-recognised training in maize or wheat milling without pursuing a national qualification.

Admission Requirements
  • Grade 10 certificate; or AET (ABET) Level 4 (Literacy and Numeracy)
  • Assistance from a Head Miller or Training Officer
  • Course content available in English only
Course Duration & Structure
  • 2-Year theory course (5 modules)
  • Does not require a logbook
  • 6-month preparation for Trade Test
  • First Semester Registration opens end of November and closes the last week of January. Second Semester Registration opens end of May and closes the last week of July.
Modules

Modules 1–5 cover: Milling principles, Quality control, Equipment operation, and Workplace procedures

Assessment
  • Progress Questions (60% pass required)
  • Semester Exams (60% pass required)
  • Trade Test (after module 5 completion)
  • Exam time: 3 hours per module, written under invigilation between 9:00 and 12:00
Progress Question Submission Rules
  • Submit scanned answers as a single PDF via email (no postal submissions).
  • Include the provided Cover Sheet.
  • Hand-drawn sketches only; no photocopies.
  • Write on the right-hand side with space for tutor comments.
  • Follow original question numbering and formatting.
  • Answer all questions; attempt every one even if unsure.
  • Match the length of answers to the mark allocation.
  • Late submissions will not be marked.
Examination Rules
  • Only students who passed the progress questions can write exams.
  • Two sessions per exam day: 09:00–12:00 and 13:00–16:00.
  • Students must bring valid ID and required stationery.
  • No cell phones or unauthorised materials allowed.
  • Use exam time effectively and align answers with allocated marks.
Examination Grades
  • Pass: 60%
  • Distinction: 80%
Certificate

SAGMA Certificate of Completion

Acknowledgement of Top Students

The student achieving the highest marks will receive recognition from SAGMA, which may include a framed certificate and an invitation to a formal industry event.

Fees

2026 Registration Fee & Study Material (per module)*:

  • NCM Members – R4 628.75
  • Non-members – R12 089.95
  • Foreign Students – R13 131.77

Redoing a module*:

  • NCM Members – R2 310.35
  • Non-members – R6 053.60
  • Foreign Students – R6 588.07

* Prices include VAT

Exam Venues
  • Bloemfontein
  • Botswana
  • East London
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Kroonstad
  • Lichtenburg
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia (Windhoek)
  • Paarl
  • Polokwane
  • Port Elizabeth
  • Gauteng
  • Swaziland
  • Upington
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Online Course Registration

Complete all the information below and click the submit button at the bottom of the form. You will be redirected to a receipt confirmation page once you have successfully submitted the information. For enquiries, please contact the SAGMA Course Administrator, Elmien Bussiahn, at +27 (0)60 643 0453 or info@sagma.co.za.