"Participation and linkages for improved extension delivery" – the role of the extension worker

Abstract

Sustainable agricultural development is only possible if there is participation and clear linkages between the role players that will ensure improved extension (service) delivery. The aim of this study is to determine the role of the extension worker to ensure participation and the formation of linkages, and by doing so, improve extension delivery. The evaluation of a number of organisations/institutions involved in delivering an extension service as well as the clients (farmers) organisations shows very little participation processes and only a few linkages (in most cases a top down approach), between the service provider and the client and vice versa. Development projects that were successful indicated towards the importance of the following fundamental principles that give direction when one is working with people in a community: respect for human dignity; individuality; self-determination; self-help; community needs; indigenous plans; partnership and change. By applying these principles the extension worker became part of the community and the first step to participate and to link has been formed between the client and extension worker on the farm and within the farming community (bottom-up approach).

Keywords: participation, linkages, role and extension

South African Journal of Agricultural Extension Vol. 34(2) 2005: 166-180