In the face of rapidly evolving agricultural challenges, the role of extension and advisory services (EAS) is more crucial than ever. Smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities require tailored support by combining suitable EAS with inclusive rural communication services (RCS) to adopt new technologies and sustainable practices. Recognizing this need, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is launching a three-part webinar series to explore innovative extension models that enhance technology adoption and scaling in agriculture. The webinars are organized on 10 April, 29 May and 26 June in collaboration with the FAO’s Office of Innovation (OIN) and the Communication for Development Team of the Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division, Family Farming (PSUF)
Traditionally, agricultural extension services have been dominated by public sector institutions. However, these services often face barriers related to accessibility, affordability, and coordination, limiting their effectiveness. In response, pluralistic extension models have emerged, bringing together diverse actors—including private enterprises, farmer organizations, digital platforms, and community-based initiatives—to deliver tailored advisory support.
FAO has been actively collaborating with regional networks to document and share best practices based on 29 case studies across Africa and the Asia-Pacific. These cases highlight innovative extension models that successfully enhance service delivery. Building on insights gained from the 2024 webinar series, FAO is expanding its efforts with this new initiative to further explore successful EAS models and their impact.
This upcoming webinar aims to showcase successful pluralistic EAS models and their impact on agricultural transformation, as well as highlight how RCS—including participatory video and rural radio—can drive the uptake of agricultural innovation. The series will also provide a platform for stakeholders to explore practical solutions for strengthening demand-led agricultural advisory services through innovation and communication. The webinar’s expected outcomes include increased awareness and knowledge of pluralistic extension approaches and greater engagement in the use of communication tools and media to support agricultural advisory services.
As agriculture continues to face complex challenges, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders remains essential. This FAO-led initiative underscores the importance of innovation and communication in agricultural extension, paving the way for more effective and inclusive advisory services that empower smallholder farmers worldwide.
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Webinar Series Agenda
Webinar 1: Introduction to Pluralistic Extension Models
📅 Date: April 10, 2025 | ⏰ Time: 13:30-15:00 CET | 🌍 Format: Virtual (English)
- Overview of pluralistic EAS and innovative extension models.
- Highlights from regional initiatives, including contributions from FAO’s Regional Office for Africa (RAF).
Webinar 2: Private Sector and Producer-Led Extension Models
📅 Date: May 29, 2025 | ⏰ Time: 13:30-15:00 CET | 🌍 Format: Virtual (English)
- Case studies on private sector and producer-led extension models.
- Lessons learned and best practices for enhancing smallholder farmers’ access to advisory support.
Webinar 3: Leveraging Media for Agricultural Extension
📅 Date: June 26, 2025 | ⏰ Time: 13:30-15:00 CET | 🌍 Format: Virtual (English)
- The role of community media in facilitating farmer-led learning and advisory services.
- Case studies on participatory video and rural radio initiatives improving agricultural knowledge transfer.