Extension Worker Performance Key to Adopting Integrated Cattle and Corn Technology in Muna

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FORMOSA NEWS

The success of farmers in adopting integrated agricultural technology relies heavily on the active performance of extension workers in the field. A study published in July 2026 reveals that the performance of Field Agricultural Extension Workers (PPL) directly drives higher adoption rates of integrated beef cattle and corn farming technology among farmers. This research was conducted by La Ode Muh. Ikhsanuddin, Prof. Hartina Batoa, and Prof. Weka Widayati from Halu Oleo University to evaluate how extension worker performance influences the implementation of the integrated cattle-maize system in Kabangka District, Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi.

Background: Optimizing Integrated Agriculture and Livestock Potential

Muna Regency possesses significant agricultural and livestock development potential. Data indicates that corn harvest area in the region expanded from 5,836 hectares in 2023 to 9,297 hectares in 2024, with total production reaching 22,703 tons. Over the same period, the beef cattle population grew from 19,966 to 21,563 head.

This growth presents a strategic opportunity to implement a crop-livestock integration system. Under this integrated model, crop residues such as corn stalks, leaves, and cobs are processed into nutritious animal feed. Conversely, cattle manure is recycled into organic fertilizer to enrich soil fertility and boost corn yields. Despite offering higher resource efficiency and increased farm household income, the adoption of integrated technology remains suboptimal as crop farming and livestock management are often conducted separately.

Research Methodology: Evaluating Structural Models via SEM-PLS

This quantitative survey-based study was conducted in Kabangka District, Muna Regency, between March and May 2026. Kabangka District was purposively selected as it serves as a primary corn production hub and a key beef cattle development area in Southeast Sulawesi.

The study population comprised 102 farmers who cultivate corn and raise beef cattle within guided extension groups. Using Slovin's formula with a 5% margin of error, a sample of 81 farmers was selected as respondents.

Primary data were gathered through structured interviews and questionnaires using a 5-point Likert scale. Extension worker performance was evaluated across planning, execution, and evaluation indicators. Meanwhile, technology adoption was measured by the utilization of corn waste as feed, processing livestock manure into organic fertilizer, and overall integrated farm management. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS).

Main Findings: High Extension Performance Significantly Boosts Technology Adoption

Data analysis confirms that active engagement and professional delivery by extension workers serve as the primary catalyst for technological adoption among farmers:

• Extension Worker Performance Is High: The performance variable scored an average of 3.93 out of 5. Active farmer participation in extension activities scored highest (4.02), indicating effective communication by extension agents.
• Technology Adoption Level Is High: Farmers achieved an average technology adoption score of 4.08. The implementation of integrated farming systems scored highest at 4.16, followed by organic fertilizer processing at 4.11.
• Significant Positive Impact: Hypothesis testing proved that extension worker performance has a direct, positive, and significant effect on technology adoption. The analysis revealed a path coefficient of 0.870, a T-Statistic of 7.637, and a P-value of 0.000 ($p < 0.05$).
• Large Effect Size: The F-Square value reached 2.086. Well above the 0.35 threshold for a large effect, this highlights that extension worker performance is a dominant determinant in a farmer's decision to adopt integrated techniques.

Implications for Regional Agricultural Policy

The findings demonstrate that field agricultural extension agents act as pivotal change agents in accelerating technological diffusion in rural communities. Higher extension performance in program planning, mentoring, and technical delivery directly accelerates innovation adoption at the farm level.

The study outlines several key policy recommendations:

• Participatory Approaches: Extension agents should involve farmers directly during program planning to ensure technology applications address real field needs.
• Operational Facility Support: Local governments and agricultural agencies should enhance extension capacities through operational tools, regular training, and practical demonstration plots.
• Strengthening Farmer Groups: Farmers are encouraged to actively leverage extension assistance to maximize agricultural waste recycling, reduce input costs, and improve productivity.

Author Profiles

• La Ode Muh. Ikhsanuddin, S.P., M.P.: Lead researcher and academic at Halu Oleo University, specializing in agricultural extension, development communication, and rural technology adoption.
• Prof. Dr. Ir. Hartina Batoa, M.Si.: Professor at Halu Oleo University with expertise in agricultural sociology, farmer institutions, and agricultural extension services.
• Prof. Dr. Ir. Weka Widayati, M.S.: Professor at Halu Oleo University specializing in agribusiness community development and agricultural policy evaluation.

Research Source

Journal Article Title: The Effect of Agricultural Extension Workers' Performance on the Adoption of Cattle-Maize Integration Technology in Kabangka District, Muna Regency

Journal Name: Jurnal Multidisiplin Madani (MUDIMA)

Publication Year: 2026 (Vol. 6, No. 7, pp. 1051–1058)

Official DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/mudima.v6i7.107

URL : https://journalmudima.my.id/index.php/mudima