Abstract:
Agricultural extension agents play an important role in educating the farming community and solving the weed related problem. In the present study an attempt has been made to investigate the weeds related professional competency of agricultural extension agents of North West Frontier Province (NWFP), Pakistan. This study was initiated during September, 2006 where 50 questionnaires were distributed among the agricultural extension agents in the various districts of NWFP. Thirty four extension agents returned the questionnaire after filling and the data were analyzed as per design. Data showed that all the officers have preliminary knowledge of weed science however, very few were able to show competency in weeds related knowledge. Many of the agents were unable to identify the weeds of major and minor crops. Similarly, there was a lack of farmers’ guidance in herbicide application. Above 70% of the agents rated weed science related knowledge as very important. Hence, the present study suggests that the agricultural professionals should be well trained in the subject of weed science so that they can recommend the weed management techniques to the farming community which will ultimately increase the quality and quantity of agricultural commodities and raise the socio-economic status of rural folks.
Page(s):
331-337
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Pakistan Journal of Weed Science Research, Volume: 12, Issue: 4, Year: 2006