Harvesting Capabilities: An Investigation in Context of Subject Matter Specialists

Abstract

The key role of agriculture extension services is to facilitate and uplift the socio-economic condition of the farming community. Keeping in view recent trends in the agriculture sector, Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs) would be enough capable to support and supervise their staff in the dissemination of the latest technology. Hence, this study was steered to investigate the harvesting proficiencies of SMSs working in Provincial Agriculture Extension Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 56, SMSs were selected from all districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and were interviewed through a pre-tested interview plan. The outcomes are presented in the form of tables, percentages, and graphs. To achieve the desired objectives, the dummy variable regression model, Standard Deviation (SD), Mean, and Paired Sample T-test were also used. Outcomes disclosed that the majority (41.1%) of the SMSs were recorded in 41-50 years of age category following 37.5% in the age category of 31-40 years. The educational level of the respondents showed that majority (82.1%) were M. Sc (Hons) degree following 10.7% who were Bachelors and only (7.1%) were PhDs in their respective fields. Based on the mean difference, judging proper time was at 1^st rank order with a mean possessed 3.42 against the mean required 4.48. Capabilities of the respondents regarding collecting and processing seed with a possessed mean of 3.33 against the mean required of 4.56 was reported at 2^nd rank of the possessed and required level of harvesting capabilities. The topmost training need was reported in managing field heat followed by harvesting techniques and tools with a mean difference of -1.73 and -1.25 and t-values of -11.10 and -8.26 respectively. It is recommended that SMSs should be encouraged to pursue doctoral-level education to boost-up their analytical and managerial capabilities. More in-service training for SMSs should be arranged and conducted for effectively freight their services to the farming community.