(a) Mention four target groups of the extension agent. (b) Discuss five important qualities of a good extension worker (c) State four functions of an extens...

Answer Details

(a) Four target groups of the extension agent:

• Crop farmers
• Livestock (animal) farmers
• Rural women/farmers' wives
• Youths and school leavers
• Farmers' cooperatives and organisations

(b) Five important qualities of a good extension worker:

• Good knowledge of agriculture: he must be well trained and understand modern farming practices so as to teach farmers correctly.
• Good communication skill: he must be able to pass information clearly in the local language the farmers understand.
• Patience and tolerance: he must be patient with farmers who learn slowly or resist new ideas.
• Honesty and good character: he must be trustworthy so that farmers will believe and accept his advice.
• Ability to relate well with people (good human relations): he must be friendly, approachable and able to win the confidence of the farmers.

(c) Four functions of an extension worker:

• To teach farmers improved and modern farming methods.
• To carry farmers' problems to research stations and bring research findings back to farmers.
• To organise demonstrations, field days, shows and training for farmers.
• To help farmers form and run cooperative societies and obtain inputs and credit.