Gabagambi's Face-to-Face: Interview with a Local Farmer. Photo Courtesy.
By Adonis Byemelwa
In a groundbreaking study conducted by
Esther A. Gabagambi and Wu Jin from the College of Humanities and Development
Studies at China Agricultural University, significant insights have emerged
regarding the pivotal role of university-led agricultural extension services in
Tanzania
This research, published in the
Journal of Education and Practice 2018, sheds light on how these services
impact community livelihoods, food security, and economic prosperity among
Tanzanian farmers.
The study delved into the efficacy of
extension services provided by Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) and
their influence on rural farming communities.
It highlighted that these services,
aimed at disseminating innovative agricultural technologies, play a crucial
role in enhancing productivity and sustainability in Tanzania's agricultural
sector. Professor Wu Jin, a co-author of the study, emphasizes the
transformative impact of these initiatives:
"Extension services provided by
universities are not just about transferring knowledge; they are about
empowering farmers with practical solutions that improve their lives and
livelihoods," Professor Wu Jin explains.
"Our findings highlight the
importance of integrating academic research with community needs, fostering a
dynamic environment where agriculture can thrive."
In
2018, Sokoine University of Agriculture Vice Chancellor Prof. Raphael Chibunda
and Prof. Sun Qixin inaugurated the Joint Research Center for Agricultural
Development in Morogoro, Tanzania.
The research revealed stark contrasts
between farmers who benefited from university-led demonstrations (demo farmers)
and those who did not.
Demo farmers reported higher levels of food
security and agricultural productivity compared to their counterparts. Esther
A. Gabagambi, lead author of the study, elaborates on these disparities:
"Participation in university-led
projects equips farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate
challenges such as food shortages," Gabagambi notes. "Our data shows
that demo farmers were significantly more food-secure, with 53.7% reporting
adequate food supplies, compared to 46.3% among non-demo farmers."
The study examined specific
agricultural practices adopted by farmers under SUA's guidance. Techniques like
crop rotation and intercropping were found to be more widely practiced and
understood among demo farmers, contributing to enhanced crop yields and soil
fertility. These practices are crucial in mitigating the effects of climate
change and ensuring sustainable agriculture in the region.
"Knowledge is power in
agriculture," Gabagambi emphasizes. "Farmers who received training on
crop rotation and intercropping not only improved their harvests but also
reduced reliance on external inputs, making their farming operations more
resilient."
The impact extended beyond
agricultural practices to tangible improvements in household infrastructure and
asset ownership. Demo farmers were more likely to own essential assets like
bicycles and mobile phones, which are crucial for accessing markets and
information. Professor Wu Jin highlights the broader implications of these
findings:
"Ownership of assets and access
to electricity are markers of economic empowerment," Professor Wu Jin
states. "By equipping farmers with the tools they need, universities like
SUA are not only enhancing agricultural productivity but also fostering
socio-economic development in rural communities."
The study also highlighted challenges
within the current extension service framework, particularly the limited
participation of the private sector. It calls for greater collaboration between
universities, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector to strengthen
extension services and ensure they meet the diverse needs of Tanzanian farmers
effectively.
"Improving extension services
requires a holistic approach," Gabagambi asserts. "We need
partnerships that leverage expertise and resources from various sectors to
create sustainable solutions for farmers."
Looking ahead, the researchers recommend scaling up successful extension models and enhancing funding for agricultural education and research. They advocate for a more integrated approach where universities not only conduct research but also actively engage with communities to disseminate and implement findings.
Leaders
and experts from Henan Agricultural Skill Technical College in China, VETA
management, and staff at VETA Kihonda in Morogoro, posing at the demonstration
farm during their December 17, 2019 visit. Photo: Courtesy
"Our study underlines the
critical role of agricultural universities in driving innovation and
development," Professor Wu Jin concludes. "By expanding access to
education and extension services, we can empower farmers to achieve food
security, increase incomes, and build resilient communities."
Dr. Gabagambi's insights from the Institute
of Social Work in Kijitonyama, Dar es Salaam, alongside Wu Jin's research,
underline the critical need for investing in agricultural education and
extension services. In Tanzania's agricultural landscape, universities play a
crucial role in equipping farmers with essential knowledge and tools for
sustainable growth.
With continued support and
collaboration, these efforts promise to transform Tanzania's agricultural
landscape for the better, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for its
farming communities.
Gabagambi and Wu Jin's study highlights
the transformative impact of university-led agricultural extension services in
Tanzania.
By bridging the gap between academic
research and practical farming needs, these services not only enhance
productivity and food security but also contribute to economic empowerment and
community development.
In Tanzania's pursuit of agricultural
resilience, investments in transformative initiatives are not merely
advantageous but essential. The recent study by Esther A. Gabagambi and Wu Jin
from China Agricultural University illuminates the pivotal role of universities
in this endeavor.
Their research highlights how universities
serve as catalysts for innovation and sustainability in Tanzania's agricultural
landscape. By bridging cutting-edge research with practical applications, these
institutions empower farmers with the knowledge and tools crucial for navigating
the complexities of climate change and economic volatility.
Gabagambi and Wu Jin's findings
highlight the profound impact of university-led extension services. These
services not only enhance agricultural productivity but also bolster food
security and elevate rural livelihoods.
By disseminating sustainable practices
and fostering economic empowerment, universities contribute significantly to
community development. Professor Wu Jin emphasizes, "We are witnessing a
pivotal moment where strategic investments in agricultural education can yield
substantial benefits. By equipping farmers with sustainable practices,
universities play a pivotal role in driving positive change across
Tanzania."
The imperative now is to mobilize
stakeholders across sectors. Strengthening partnerships among universities,
government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector is critical to providing
comprehensive support for farmers. Such collaborations can amplify the impact
of agricultural education and extension services, ensuring holistic development
and resilience in Tanzania's agricultural sector.
"Investing in agriculture isn't
just about securing food and livelihoods; it's an investment in our nation's
future," asserts Gabagambi. "By fostering innovation and inclusive
growth, we can create a sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector that
benefits all Tanzanians."
In
navigating its path toward sustainable development, Tanzania must prioritize
innovation and knowledge-sharing. Championing resilient agricultural practices
and equitable growth strategies is crucial for leading sustainable agricultural
development regionally and globally.
With
unwavering commitment and collaborative efforts, universities and their
partners can forge a brighter future for Tanzanian agriculture. This approach
ensures prosperity, sustainability, and resilience for generations to come,
positioning Tanzania at the forefront of global agricultural innovation and
sustainability.