DefinePK

Abstract

In order to assess potential training capacity of research and extension agents to enhance expertise of orchard owners in apple value chain, the study was carried out during 2022-23 in Balochistan (Pakistan). The study used 39 respondents including researchers (n=13) and extension agents (n=26). The questionnaire was used as survey instrument consisted of questions and statements based on training needs of producers on apple orchard management and apple value chain related aspects to be imparted by research and extension agents. The main focus was the possessed level of competence of research and extension agents in imparting training and required level of competence over certain notes to assess training needs on the basis of 5-point Likert scale. The researchers and extension agents were also checked for their training in 19 task-points related to their skill for training of growers in apple orchard management, and the assessed training need of respondents was in the range of 0.51 and 2.05 Likert-scale score (avg. 1.356=27.12 % deficiency). Further, the researchers and extension agents were analysed for their competence as trainers of growers in 43 task-points related to value chain, and the assessed training need of respondents was in the range of 0.21 and 2.44 Likert-scale score (avg. 1.36=27.38 % deficiency). In nine-factors mainly constraining effective training of apple growers, the problems were ranked in the score range of 1.77 and 4.44 at Likert scale (Avg. 3.37) that was considered as an “important” factor constraining required level of orchard management to produce quality apple by the growers.