Agricultural Extension Roles and Innovation Barriers in Gorontalo Corn Farming Bontula Village

Suniyawan; Yuriko Boekoesoe; Muhammad Rizq Gobel

doi:10.63922/ijevss.v5i02.3578

Suniyawan State University of Gorontalo
Yuriko Boekoesoe State University of Gorontalo
Muhammad Rizq Gobel State University of Gorontalo

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63922/ijevss.v5i02.3578

Keywords: agricultural extension, corn production, innovation adoption, corn productivity, farming

Abstract

Agricultural extension plays an important role in strengthening farmers’ capacity to adopt innovations in corn farming. This study analyzes the role of extension workers, identifies barriers to extension implementation, and examines the relationship between extension roles, perceived barriers, and corn productivity in Bontula Village, Asparaga Subdistrict, Gorontalo Regency. A survey was conducted in 2024 involving 30 corn farmers, purposively selected based on their participation in extension activities and membership in farmer groups. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics, a three-point Likert scale, and Spearman correlation. The findings show that extension workers were perceived to play an active role, particularly as motivators, with a mean score of 2.67, followed by facilitator and liaison roles, each with a mean score of 2.60. The main barriers were limited facilities and infrastructure, limited access to information, weak marketing networks, and uneven farmer participation. Spearman correlation results indicate positive but non-significant relationships between extension roles and corn productivity. These findings suggest that extension services have contributed to farmers’ motivation and knowledge, but their facilitation and liaison functions need strengthening to support the adoption of practical innovations.

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