Development of a University Agricultural Extension System in Romania

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In the context of the increasing challenges faced by Romanian agriculture – from limited access to information and markets to the lack of efficient support structures – this project aims to contribute to the development of a sustainable agricultural extension system led by universities.

Agricultural extension systems play a key role in modernizing agriculture by facilitating the transfer of knowledge, technologies, and best practices to farmers. In many countries, universities are key players in providing these services due to their academic expertise and connection to innovation.

What are agricultural extension services?
Agricultural extension services provide information, training, and advice to farmers to help them improve production, adopt new technologies, and develop their businesses. An agricultural extension system has several roles:

• It helps farmers adopt new technologies, modern agricultural practices, and sustainable solutions.
• It organizes courses, workshops, and field demonstrations for farmers.
• It offers consulting and advice tailored to the specific needs of farmers regarding crops, soils, irrigation, mechanization, etc.
• It guides farmers in obtaining subsidies and financing for agricultural business development.
• It encourages farmers to form cooperatives and organizations to improve market access and resource availability.

Project Goal
The project aims to improve the agricultural system in Romania by implementing pilot agricultural extension programs developed and coordinated by universities. Farmers and local communities will work with university experts to identify solutions that improve agricultural practices, facilitate market access, and create economic opportunities.

During the project, we aim to organize an event, a national conference, and meetings for universities interested in developing extension services.

Key Project Objectives
Through this initiative, we will contribute to the creation of a modern and efficient agricultural extension system that supports the development of farmers and rural communities in Romania. Our objectives are:

• Piloting innovative university-based extension programs in selected regions.
• Organizing a co-creation event to collaboratively design and refine the pilot programs.
• Strengthening collaboration between universities, local communities, and stakeholders.
• Increasing the capacity of Romanian universities to provide effective extension services.
• Generating evidence to support the development of a sustainable national extension system.