A 2026 study by Sri Kurniawati, Sutan Pulungan, Rasmita Adelina, Yusriani Nasution, and Nggelem Ginting from Universitas Graha Nusantara, Padangsidimpuan, reveals that rice farmers in Barumun District, Padang Lawas Regency, view agricultural extension workers as effective contributors to farming improvement. Conducted between February and June 2025, the study highlights the importance of extension services in strengthening farmers’ knowledge, access to resources, and overall agricultural productivity.
Agriculture remains a key livelihood sector in Indonesia, yet many farmers face declining economic benefits and shifting interest toward plantation crops such as oil palm. At the same time, agricultural extension services—designed to transfer knowledge and support farmers—often encounter challenges, including limited resources and uneven engagement with farmers. These conditions make it crucial to understand how farmers perceive the role of extension workers on the ground.
The research involved 30 lowland rice farmers selected based on specific criteria such as age, education, and farming experience. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using simple percentage-based methods to capture farmers’ responses.
The main findings show strong positive perceptions of extension workers in two key roles:
As educators:
- Provide clear explanations of rice cultivation techniques
- Deliver up-to-date information on pests and diseases
- Guide the proper use of fertilizers and pesticides
- Conduct field training and hands-on demonstrations
As facilitators:
- Help farmers access subsidized fertilizers and certified seeds
- Connect farmers to government agricultural programs
- Organize farmer group activities and meetings
- Assist in solving farming problems through discussion
- Support access to markets for selling harvests
Overall, farmers consider extension workers effective in improving both technical skills and access to agricultural support systems.
Sri Kurniawati from Universitas Graha Nusantara explains that extension workers play a dual role in education and facilitation that directly shapes farmers’ capacity. Their presence not only transfers knowledge but also bridges farmers with resources and institutional support. However, the study also notes that increasing the intensity of field visits and adapting materials to local needs would further improve effectiveness.
The findings have important implications. For farmers, strong extension support can increase productivity and income. For policymakers, the study underscores the need to strengthen extension systems through better training, funding, and infrastructure. For the agricultural sector, effective extension services can accelerate the adoption of modern farming practices and improve food security.
Author Profile
- Sri Kurniawati - Universitas Graha Nusantara
- Sutan Pulungan -Universitas Graha Nusantara
- Rasmita Adelina - Universitas Graha Nusantara
- Yusriani Nasution -Universitas Graha Nusantara
- Nggelem Ginting -Universitas Graha Nusantara
Source
Kurniawati, S., Pulungan, S., Adelina, R., Nasution, Y., & Ginting, N. (2026). Rice Farmers' Perceptions of the Role of Agricultural Extension Workers in Barumun District, Padang Lawas Regency. International Journal of Education and Life Sciences (IJELS), Vol. 4 No. 3.
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