Abstract

A descriptive survey type of study was conducted in the south-central agricultural regions of Botswana in order to assess the training needs of extension agents. A semi-structured Job analysis interview schedule and a job inventory questionnaire were adapted from Pearn and Kandola (1988) and used in a two-stage study to collect data from 141 extension agents in 15 agricultural districts. The specific objectives of the study were to: (1) identify the job operations and tasks of the job of extension agents; (2) determine the skill requirements of the job; (3) assess the level of mastery of the job skills by the agents and identify their training needs. According to the results, the job of extension agents comprised eight operations and 22 tasks, and 25 skill requirements. Level of skill mastery rating by the agents showed a deficiency in 56% of the job skills therefore, indicating a training need in 14 subject areas. The study recommended regular training program review; thorough needs assessment by the Ministry of Agriculture and related training institutions involving all stakeholders to ensure relevant in-service training for extension agents.

Keywords: Job Content, Training Needs, Extension Agents, Botswana

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