(a) Explain the term extension in agriculture. (b) State eight functions of an extension agent. (c) List six problems of agricultural extension in your country
Explanation
(a)” Extension ” in Agriculture is a process whereby modern farming techniques and research findings are taken 30. the farmers through extension workers and problems of the farmers are taken to research institutions for solution.
(b) Functions of an agricultural extension agent include: (i) Acts as a link between the researchers or government as the farming communities. (ii) Teaches improved farming practices to farmers. (iii) Plans and executes farming education programmes. (iv) Organizes and supervises farmers group i.e meeting co-operatives and their workers. (v) Supervises the utilization of agricultural loans. (vi) Helps to improve the outlook of farmers toward their problems. (vii) Conducts / organises training for farmers. (viii) Assists farmers to source farm inputs. (ix) Evaluates agricultural extension programmes and projects. (x) Carries the problems of farmers to the researchers. (xi) Assists farmers to locate marketing channels for farm produce.
(c) Problems of Agricultural Extension in Nigeria are: i) Low extension or farmers ratio i.e inadequate man-power. (ii) High rate of illiteracy among farmers makes communication difficult. (iii) Poor extension tools and facilities. (iv) Conservative attitude of farmers makes changes difficult. (v) Poor accessibility farming communities. (vi) Bureaucracy level in government or red tapism. (vii) There is improper defined roles extension agents. (viii) Agents areuncommitted and undedicated. (ix) Agents are poorly motivated due to poor remuneration. (x) Poor social amenities in localities discourages workers. (xi) Inadequate transportation facilities for extension agents. (xii) Poor communication system. (xiii) Inadequate input to back up extension messages.