CHARACTERIZATION OF THE EXTENTIONISTS OF THE ELEMENTAL PROGRAM ON TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN ZACATECAS, MÉXICO

Abstract

This study was carried out in the second semester of 1997 in the state of Zacatecas, Mexico, and its main concern was to categorize the extentionists who work un the elemental program on technical assistance according to their own personal characteristics, academic background, professional experience, budget, salaries and economic dependents as well as work expectations. In order to accomplish this, a random sample of 49 was taken from a total population of 417 change agents also, a questionnaire was designed and given to gather information of interest. The results are as follows: a) the training received by the extentionists was varied in the last two years; b) plague control information and agriculture diseases were mainly required; c) the extentionsts’ work experience is moderate in technical activities as well as its institutional surroundings; d) there are many constraints which limit the extentionists to work efficiently, thus, highlighting the lack of interest of the producers.