DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore the awareness level of farmers about the different services rendered by the extension field staff in Afghanistan.

Methodology

A quantitative study was conducted in the Chaparhar district of Nangarhar province, Afghanistan. A sample of 150 farmers was selected using a simple random sampling technique from 10 villages. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a validated and reliable interview schedule. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), employing descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency, mean, standard deviation) and a five-point Likert scale for responses.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A[Select Study Area and Villages] --> B[Determine Sample Size];
    B --> C[Develop Interview Schedule];
    C --> D[Validate and Pre-test Instrument];
    D --> E[Conduct Face-to-Face Interviews];
    E --> F[Collect and Code Data];
    F --> G[Analyze Data using SPSS];
    G --> H[Interpret Results and Draw Conclusions];                    

Discussion

The study highlights that extension services have effectively promoted GAPs and alternate crops, contributing to better production and profits. The medium awareness regarding water-saving techniques and climate change indicates a need for increased focus in these critical areas, especially given Afghanistan's vulnerability to climate impacts. The high awareness of traditional extension methods like training and demonstrations suggests their continued importance, while the moderate awareness of ICT-based approaches points to an opportunity for integration to enhance reach.

Key Findings

Farmers demonstrated a high level of awareness regarding the promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and the cultivation of alternate crops. Awareness regarding water-saving methods, high-value crops, irrigation practices, and climate challenges was at a medium level. Farmers had a high level of awareness about information dissemination, farmer training, agricultural exhibitions, demonstrations, fairs, and youth empowerment programs. Awareness regarding broadcasting radio programs and the use of e-extension and ICT-based approaches was also high. However, awareness about agricultural marketing, climatic information dissemination, and helpline centers was medium.

Conclusion

The study concludes that Afghan farmers have a commendable level of awareness regarding GAPs and alternate crops, with moderate awareness concerning water-saving techniques and climate change. There is a need for the extension sector to integrate ICTs and increase focus on climate change adaptation measures to effectively disseminate information and improve agricultural practices on a large scale.

Fact Check

1. Sample Size: A total of 150 randomly selected farmers were interviewed. (Confirmed in Methodology)
2. GDP Contribution: Agriculture contributes almost 58% of the GDP in Afghanistan. (Confirmed in Introduction)
3. Awareness Level for GAPs: Farmers had a high level of awareness regarding the promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (Mean = 4.65). (Confirmed in Results)

Mind Map