Extension agents' technical knowledge requirements for effective extension work

Abstract

Technical knowledge requirements of extension agents were investigated in this study. Data for the study was collected with the aid of structured questionnaire administered to the 78 respondents. It was found that respondents were mainly males, were married, were in the middle age category, had BSc/HND, made between 1 and 3 contacts with clienteles a week, and had between 1 and 5 years working experience. Respondents indicated that training had been received through conferences, seminars, workshops and short courses. Reasons given for the training include building confidence, promotion, increase in allowance, networking with others and exposure. The study revealed that respondents required technical knowledge in areas such as Information Technology, Public relations, Management, Practical agriculture, Research techniques, and Communication skills.

International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Vol. 7(1) 2006: 121-124