cited reference, The Hague: International Service for National Agricultural Research, October 1990. 10 p. (ISNAR Linkages Discussion Paper No. 8)., This paper focuses on the links between rice research and extension in the Matara District of Sri Lanka. Various formal linkage mechanisms were set up when the training and visit system of extension was implemented nationwide, including regional technical working groups, research-extension dialogues, bi-weekly training, and the use of subject-matter officers as liaison between research and extension. These mechanisms improved the links but could not overcome the poor communication and great social distance between researchers and extension workers. After World Bank project funding ended, the mechanisms could not be fully sustained. (original)