Analisis kinerja penyuluh dan kompetensi petani jagung hibrida di Kecamatan Puuwatu Kota Kendari

Abstrak

This study aims to analyse the performance of extension workers and farmers' competencies in hybrid maize in Puuwatu Sub-district, Kendari City. This research is important to increase agricultural productivity through improving extension worker performance and farmer competencies. The method used was survey with stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews with 69 farmers and agricultural extension officers. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the performance of agricultural extension workers in Puuwatu sub-district was classified as good. Extension officers have the ability to provide technical guidance and motivation to farmers and demonstrate expertise in developing and implementing effective extension programmes. Extension workers also play an important role in helping farmers access market information, technology, and other resources. The competence of hybrid maize farmers in this region is also quite high, especially in terms of knowledge and technical skills of maize cultivation. Farmers have adequate knowledge of cultivation techniques, seed selection, tillage, and crop maintenance. Farmers' skills in applying hybrid maize cultivation technology are also quite good. However, there are weaknesses in the attitudinal aspect, especially in the application of new technologies and more efficient farming practices. The conclusion of this study is that improving the performance of extension workers and farmers' competencies is essential to achieve the goal of sustainable agricultural development and improved farmers' welfare in Puuwatu Sub-district, Kendari City. Suggestions given are the need for capacity building and continuous training for extension workers to adopt more innovative and participatory extension methods. In addition, training programmes for farmers should focus more on attitudinal aspects and the application of new technologies to improve agricultural efficiency and productivity. Thus, improving the performance of extension workers and the competence of farmers is crucial to achieving the goal of sustainable agricultural development and improving the welfare of farmers in Puuwatu Sub-district, Kendari City.

Kata kunci

• Farmer Competence
• Performance
• extension worker