Agricultural extension policy as a framework for change

Abstract

Abstract The continuing debate on the role of public sector extension has resulted in a proliferation of formal extension policy. It has been contended, however, that the notion of extension policy lacked clarity and hence an adequate framework. The impact of formal extension policy on the ongoing change process affecting the extension function and its stakeholders has therefore been poorly understood and developed. A case study of the introduction of a formal extension policy in Queensland Australia was conducted to better understand the role of formal policy in contributing to the change process. As a result of the research, recommendations were made to guide the process and content of formal extension policy. These included an emphasis on the content of formal policy as supporting the process of negotiation rather than vice versa; the avoidance of prescriptive solutions in policy formulation; and the securing of resources needed for the extension community to move in the negotiated direction of change....