THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION WORKERS IN RAISING POTATO FARMERS' KNOWLEDGE OF POTATO PRODUCTION AND MARKETING

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Fac. Agric. Sci. Eng., Sulaimani Univ., G9P8+Q3, 46001, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq

Abstract

Agricultural extension staff deliver farmers relevant and up-to-date market information, technical advice, and support on various agricultural production-related. The research objectives were to determine the role of agricultural extension workers in increasing potato farmers’ knowledge regarding production and marketing to enhance their products, and it is based on some personal variables. Sulaymaniyah governorate was selected to conduct this research as a region.The research population included the extension workers in the agricultural extension directorate,the research sample included all extension workers which were (76 extension workers) in the targeted area. The data was collected through a questionnaire consisting of two parts. The findings show thatthe role of agricultural extension workers ranked as medium to high, it implies that they have a significant role in improving potato farmers’ expertise in potato production and marketing to enhance their products. Additionally, there is a significant difference in the role ofextension workers in raising potatofarmers' knowledge of potato production according to thesepersonal variables(age, level of education, gender, specialty, and communication methods). Similarly, there is a significant difference in the role ofextension workers in raising potato farmers' knowledge of potato marketing according to thesepersonalvariables (age, level of education, gender, family status, specialty, and communication methods). To assist potato farmers, it was recommended that extension agents be given certain supplies and equipment, and provide training programs.

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