Cummings, Ralph W., Jr. (author / Agricultural Economist, Rockefeller Foundation) and Agricultural Economist, Rockefeller Foundation
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
1981
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 80 Document Number: C04616
Notes:
INTERPAKS, In: Workshop on Linkages Between Agricultural Research and Farmers in Developing Countries; 1981 May 13-14. New York, NY : Rockefeller Foundation, 1981. 25 p., Begins with an overview of the technology development process which includes 3 principal action agents: a) the research service, b) the extension service, and c) the farmers. Points out the significant influence the service institutions and government policies have on the process. Delineates some of the weaknesses seen in the effectiveness of the various types of agents and points out the key variables in the technology development process. Raises the issues that need resolution for better linkages between agricultural research systems and the farmer. Outlines some objectives to be pursued in accelerating agricultural development. Points out the information needed on agro-climatic conditions, social and cultural characteristics, institutional and infrastructural development programs. Presents strategies for technology development through discussion of the interrelated components of generation, assessment and diffusion. Discusses the role organizations play in the process and the need to identify alternative means of implementation. Concludes with a section on the implications for assistance from donor agencies.
This article is maintained in the office of the Agricultural Communications Program, University of Illinois > "International" section > "Philippines CARD Group" file folder., "...for all their seeming importance, these continuous outpourings of government and foreign aid and the steady diffusion of developmental projects and innovations are only pallatives. Thus, the wheel of agricultural development must reel off with a farmer-oriented concept of development which gives prominent role to farmers' participation in programs which are supposedly designed for their upliftment. ... "How can farmers be mobilized to participate in their own development? Simply by the abolition of 'transmission mentality' in communication and its replacement with a more liberating type of communication that would contain more dialogue..."
