Agricultural Extension in Thailand Based on the Viewpoints of an Innovative Thinker, Prof. Rapee Sagarik

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to answer three main research questions regarding agricultural extension work in Thailand. First, how do we advocate that extension workers work in harmony with agriculturists? Second, what are the advantages of doing so? Third, how can government policies toward extension work be improved? Research methods included the collection of information by using documentary studies and in-depth interviews with Prof. Rapee Sagarik, an innovative thinker who was the recipient of “The Scholar in Agriculture of Thailand” award in 2010 from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The interviews were transcribed and rewritten and then approved by Prof. Sagarik. According to Prof. Sagarik, in order for harmonious and innovative extension work between extension workers and agriculturists, extension workers must work continually with agriculturists in the field; understand the definition and principles of agricultural extension; realize their roles in the current situation; know themselves; be humble; be firm; have faith in their work; be accountable; provide facts to agriculturists; have endurance and be honest, indifferent, generous, and forgiving; be able to work with people from diverse backgrounds; have compassion; and be optimistic. The advantages of harmonious interactions between extension workers and agriculturists are (1) it builds strong linkages between the two groups, and (2) it enables agriculturists to be self-reliant. Based on Prof. Sagarik’s viewpoints, we suggest that a government policy for extension work should be to encourage senior administrators to visit farms to see for themselves how to best serve the needs of agriculturists and best integrate the extension work load among various departments.