Training Needs Assessment of Extensionists in Gezira Scheme, Sudan

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to determine the training needs of agricultural extensionists in Gezira Scheme in order to suggest appropriate training programs. The population of this study was all extensionists who were working at various irrigation divisions throughout the Scheme (47 respondents). The main instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The data were collected during the period from January to February 2013. The data were statistically analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SPSS) to calculate frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. A Likert scale was used to assess the needed level of training. . The study showed that there was a strong need for in-service and job training to narrow the gap between the actual and the required skills and knowledge. Extensionists expressed a greater need for in-service training in specific areas and they showed the necessity of receiving training on computer skills, extension methods, water management, technical packages of crops, analysis of agricultural policies, optimum use of the available financial resources, determination of farmers training needs, establishment of field demonstrations and field days, evaluation of trails, planning skills of extension programs and integrated pest management. In addition, the study revealed that there were problems associated with extension service delivery such as lack of facilities for extension services , inadequate number of extensionists, limited use of mass media, agricultural inputs were not available at an affordable price and agricultural credit was not readily available and affordable to the farmers. Based on the findings, it is recommended that extensisonists should be provided with the appropriate training that addresses their needs and the necessary logistics to perform their functions diligently.