Training and in-service training of home economics extension prefessionals in rural areas of Kwazulu-Natal

Home economics is traditionally a femaledominated profession. Home economists employed in the KwaZulu-Natal agricultural and rural development extension delivery system are mainly responsible for serving a predominantly female clientele, namely rural women. These home economists focus on women's domestic and reproductive roles, sometimes supplemented by home and community gardening and small livestock care. They also teach incomegenerating skills related to sewing and handicrafts. In view of the national and provincial policy to put rural women into mainstream agriculture to boost rural economies and sustain adequate food security, this paper makes some suggestions about the reorientation of home economics in-service training programmes. This reorientation should align current training with the gender roles and needs of rural households. Planners of extension delivery services should review preservice training curricula and identify skills gaps through the participatory in-service training of home economics professionals in rural development.