Symposium: National Extension Workshop: Experiences with conducting poultry extension programs for international audiences

Abstract

SUMMARY: Poultry extension programs, which target international audiences, can both be challenging and rewarding. Part of the challenge, for example, is to learn about problems associated with a poultry operation and being able to communicate effective recommendations to management personnel effectively, particularly when there is a language barrier. Benefits from international work include: 1) new ways to look at problems, 2) better understanding of challenges faced by developing communities, 3) learning to present educational materials to those with limited literacy and varying education levels, 4) adapting to challenging situations and learning to use “what's on hand,” 5) working with individuals who have access to limited resources, 6) learning how to work with other cultures and climates, and 7) experience working with audiences who may not speak English. These rewards and benefits far outweigh the time and effort put into the work. The opportunity to work internationally can come from several different approaches, including, professional organizations, religious groups, consulting for private companies, and non-government organizations (NGO) that do international development. One of the easiest to get started with is the John Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter Farmer-to-Farmer Program (F2F), funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). While the program is funded by USAID, it is implemented by several different organizations that recruit individuals with experience in agriculture to volunteer for assignments that support development in the targeted areas. US-based volunteers (citizens or permanent residents) are sent on technical assignments to provide hands-on training. Its main objectives are to increase agricultural sector productivity and profitability, to improve conservation and sustainable use of environmental and natural resources, to expand agricultural sector access to financial services, and to strengthen agricultural sector institutions. In this particular program, you will work with local farmer associations, cooperatives, women's groups, agribusinesses, and educational institutions throughout Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin American, and the Middle East. Working with international audiences is rewarding, but is not without its challenges.