Abstract
Agricultural extension in Mexico significantly favors rural development and considers agriculture as a means of promoting economic development by solving problems associated with poverty and food security. The Mexican extension system, as in other Latin American countries, has been transformed into services provided by extensionists (also known as extension agents, or professional service providers). Due to the social, economic and political relevance of the subject, there is increased interest in proposing new studies focusing on the key roles of extension agents given their importance in achieving rural development objectives through training and providing technical assistance to producers. The present work compares opinions of public and private agricultural extension agents regarding the current extension system in Mexico, and inquires about developed activities, problems faced in daily practice, as well as continuous training actions and capacities. The present study methodology was a mix of qualitative (participant observations) and quantitative (structured questionnaires) information. The study population comprised of 44 extension professionals, 17 from the public (government) and 27 from the private (advisory offices) sectors. Analysis of the results report similarities in socio-demographic data; high academic levels and training in the agricultural sciences, and extensive experience in extension services. Both groups of extension agents had the same activities, while private providers also designed projects to obtain financing. Problems faced by both groups were politico-institutional and related to marketing. Both groups were interested in continuous updating with practical methods, and were seen as having outstanding competencies to perform their functions. Key words: Rural extension, extension agent, public, private, Mexico.
Highlights
Globalization continues to compel humanity to face great challenges regarding a sustainable future
In Mexico and other Latin American nations, agricultural extension has been transformed (Table 1) into systems with services provided by professional service providers
The present study was conducted within Region XI, which corresponds to the eastern portion of the State of Mexico, and contains seven municipalities: Atenco, Chiautla, Chiconcuac, Papalotla, Tepetlaoxtoc, Texcoco and Tezoyuca
Summary
Globalization continues to compel humanity to face great challenges regarding a sustainable future. In Mexico and other Latin American nations, agricultural extension has been transformed (Table 1) into systems with services provided by professional service providers These individuals provide training, technical assistance and technology transfer services through a public and private extension market with the purpose of encouraging the development of producer capacities and skills to improve their production processes, increasing yields and economic income. National Strategy: New Vision of Rural Extension in Mexico, Integrated Extension System (Sistema de Extensión Integral) International Cooperation Agreements Incorporation of public and private universities, Extension Network and National University Innovation (Red de Extensión e Innovación Nacional Universitaria, REINU) Holistic Extension: New Extensionist Profile (skills, abilities, values and knowledge) Regional Extension Centers (technical and methodological support).
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