SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES ASSESSING FARMERS’ PERCEPTION ON AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICE DELIVERY IN THE CASE OF ABESHGE WEREDA, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study examines smallholder farmers’ perceptions of agricultural extension services in Abeshga Woreda, Ethiopia, focusing on efficacy, challenges, and demographic barriers. The research assesses how extension services influence farmers' engagement with agricultural innovations and identifies systemic gaps in service delivery. Employing a convergent parallel design methods, data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to randomly selected farmers across four kebeles (Gareba, Tachgnaw Gareba, Bido, and Fita Jeju), supplemented by qualitative insights. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analysis were used to evaluate correlations between perceptions and crop productivity outcomes. Findings indicate that a significant proportion of farmers rated extension services as moderately satisfactory, with many acknowledging strengths such as timely information dissemination and technical support. However, a notable segment expressed dissatisfaction due to delays, resource shortages, and limited customization of services to their specific needs. Gender disparities were evident, with male farmers dominating participation, reflecting women’s restricted access to resources and decision-making roles. An aging farming population and youth migration further threaten agricultural sustainability in the region. Educational barriers, including low literacy rates and limited formal schooling, hinder the adoption of modern practices, affecting pest control, crop management, and market strategies. To enhance the impact of extension services, the study recommends participatory extension models that involve farmers in co-designing solutions, gender-responsive programs to empower women through improved resource access, intergenerational knowledge transfer to bridge gaps between elders and youth, and literacy-adapted training using visual and verbal tools. Addressing these challenges could improve service effectiveness, boost agricultural productivity, and strengthen food security in Abeshga Woreda.