Agricultural Extension as a Solution to Super Advisors' Challenges in Baghdad, Iraq
Agricultural Extension: Challenges and Solutions in Iraq
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48162/rev.57.1.8Keywords:
Salinity and Desertification, Agricultural technological, Obstacles, Human obstaclesAbstract
This study sought to examine the role of agricultural extension services in mitigating challenges hindering agricultural development by proposing practical solutions based on the performance of extension workers. The research framework focused on six key obstacles to agricultural progress: (1) salinity and desertification, (2) water scarcity, (3) agricultural policy issues, (4) technological limitations, (5) structural constraints, and (6) human resource challenges. These categories encompassed 90 specific indicators outlining potential interventions. Use Likert scale, a stratified random sampling approach was employed, selecting 40% of the 17 agricultural divisions in Baghdad Governorate, covering both Karkh and Rusafa. Additionally, 50% of agricultural extension workers from these departments were randomly chosen for participation. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires, with subsequent analysis performed using the SPSS statistical software. The findings revealed that while extension workers recognized the significance of proposed solutions for agricultural development challenges, their actual implementation remained inadequate. Notably, efforts to address salinity, desertification, and water-related issues were particularly insufficient. The study also highlighted a lack of coordination, collaboration, and integration with relevant agricultural and supporting institutions. This shortfall adversely affected the execution of measures targeting policy-related obstacles, technological adoption.
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