Jumpstart Your International Extension Experience with Farmer-To-Farmer

Introduction

Strengthening the capacity of transitional and developing countries to increase their agricultural productivity usually requires the commitment and cooperation of numerous partners. Agricultural Extension clearly has an important role to play in improving global food production and security. Activities to strengthen the international dimension of the Extension system are varied and ongoing (Ludwig & McGirr, 2002). Ludwig & Barrick (1996) identified five key characteristics of an internationalized Extension system.

• Clientele develop a fundamental understanding of global and national interdependence.

• Extension faculty/agents recognize the relationship between basic international issues and the Extension mission.

• Extension educational programs within the United States stress the impact of international economic forces on agricultural markets.

• Extension educators incorporate international perspectives into on-going activities.

• Personnel evaluation systems recognize international efforts.

While internationalization is increasingly being accepted as a necessity in Cooperative Extension programs, many barriers still exist. Common obstacles to Extension personnel participation in out-of-country activities and assignments include (Knight, Elliot, & Krenzer, 1999) the following.

• Lack of time

• Lack of financial support

• Lack of language skills

• Family commitments

Numerous international opportunities exist for Extension personnel. Many of the barriers listed above can be overcome by selecting the right one. To begin the process of finding the right match, spend some time assessing your skills, defining your area of expertise, and thinking about a region of the world you might be interested in serving.

Farmer-To-Farmer: A Practical First Step

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Farmer-To-Farmer (FTF) Program was first authorized by Congress in 1985. Its goal is to provide for the transfer of knowledge and expertise from U.S. agricultural producers and businesses to farmers, farm groups, and agribusinesses in developing and transitional countries. FTF utilizes the experience and expertise of volunteers from all sectors of the U.S. farm community, including Extension faculty and agents.

The transfer of agricultural expertise and knowledge is accomplished by supporting various short-term development projects aimed at reducing poverty and stimulating sustainable and broad-based economic growth. Program areas typically address income diversification, horticulture and high value crops, natural resource management, dairy and livestock, financial and agribusiness management, and commodity processing and marketing. USAID has cooperative agreements with eight implementing organizations, and between 2004-2008 FTF plans to support over 3,000 volunteer assignments in almost 40 host countries (Table 1).

Have you ever passed by an international opportunity because of time constraints? FTF projects are often less than 3 weeks in length. In addition, agencies usually are flexible on assignment timing, enabling Extension personnel to select travel times compatible with existing research or teaching commitments.

Are you under the impression that gaining international experience requires significant financial resources? All FTF project costs are covered by the implementing agency and the host organization requesting the assistance. Your only cost as a volunteer is your time.

Have you ever hesitated to volunteer for an international assignment because you do not speak a second language? The FTF program provides qualified translators for the duration of the assignment and also handles all logistical arrangements.

Reaping the Rewards

What do you and your institution have to gain from participation in international agriculture development projects? It is becoming increasingly clear that Extension has a role and a responsibility to educate its clientele concerning global issues. Indeed, there appears to be broad support for U.S. universities to embrace the task of educating the public concerning international issues.

On a more personal level, a short-term international volunteer project can be important in enhancing or revitalizing your research and/or Extension program. Experience gained could serve as an important resource for internationalizing future Extension and resident instruction courses. The potential exists for the establishment of international partnerships and development of extramurally funded joint research projects. Finally, these assignments demonstrate good will on the part of U.S. universities and our farm community and demonstrate a willingness to develop meaningful partnerships.

In order to be successful in the future, Extension needs to continue broadening its sphere of influence to include the global community. Participation in international volunteer projects such as Farmer-To-Farmer is one effective and practical way for you to start down that road.

References

Knight, J., Elliot, J., & Krenzer, R. (1999). International interests of Arizona Extension professionals. 2000 Conference proceedings of the Association for International and Extension Education. Arlington, Virginia.

Ludwig, B. G., & Barrick, R. K. (1996). Identification of organizational efforts important to the internationalization of a state university Extension system. Journal of Agricultural Education 37(2): 40-46.

Ludwig, B. G., & McGirr, M. J. (2002). Globalizing Extension--A national initiative for U.S. Land Grant Universities. 2003 conference proceedings of the Association for International and Extension Education. Raleigh, North Carolina.