Farming is deeply tied to nature, community, and resilience, yet it is also one of the most challenging and stressful careers. Several recent studies and articles focus on the stresses associated with farming, agriculture, and those who live and work in rural areas ( https://news.uga.edu/women-stress-rural-farming/ ; https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/why-we-keep-farming-when-the-going-gets-tough ; https://www.psu.edu/news/impact/story/pennsylvania-agforum-address-farm-stress-agricultural-community ; https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/columbus/news/2024/09/27/ag-report--farmer-mental-health-study-examines-stress-levels-and-coping-mechanisms ). Previously I posted about another study I was a part of to develop a rural stress instrument . Farmers face a variety of pressures, from fluctuating market conditions and unpredictable weather to increasing societal demands. Rural stress, including mental health challenges, requires specialized support. Extension agents, as trusted community resources, can play an important role in fostering mental well-being through tailored programs and resources. I was fortunate to be on a research team examining Extension agents perceptions of rural stress in Georgia. Key Findings Regional Variation in Needs: Each district in Georgia exhibited unique priorities related to rural stress. For example, the Northwest focused on communication around stress, while the Northeast emphasized collaboration and resources. Common Themes of Education and Support: Across all districts, the need for increased education and support around farmer and rural stress emerged as a consistent theme. Using Different Facilitation Techniques: Wordcloud activities proved effective in sparking dialogue and identifying region-specific needs for addressing rural stress. Implications Beyond Georgia: Despite geographic differences, rural stress is a universal challenge. Adaptable strategies, such as visual communication tools, can foster engagement even in culturally sensitive settings. Themes from Extension Agents Practical Recommendations Region-Specific Programming: Extension agents should leverage identified district-specific themes to develop customized mental health and rural stress programs, ensuring a tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model. Promote Mental Health Literacy: Using visual tools like wordclouds, agents can encourage open conversations about mental health, reframing discussions to reduce stigma and improve health literacy. Enhance Support Networks: Provide Extension agents with additional training and resources to create a productive work environment and offer effective community support. Expand Collaboration: Investigate the adaptability of findings and strategies across a variety of rural contexts to strengthen mental health resources globally. Extension agents are uniquely positioned to address farmer and rural stress through education, support, and resources. By tailoring efforts to the needs of each community, Extension can empower farmers and foster healthier, more resilient rural communities. Please share your insights using the Comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Wilson, M. C., Stone, W. A., Holt, J. A., Lamm, K. W., Borron, A. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2019). Extension’s role in rural stress: An evaluation of Extension agents’ perceptions of rural stress in Georgia.  Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education ,  26 (3), 27-42. https://doi.org/10.5191/jiaee.2019.26302

Effectively communicating about agricultural practices is very important, especially when discussing water use. People’s perceptions are shaped not only by what they hear, but also by who delivers the message. For example, farmers can bring first-hand expertise, while conservation organizations may shape attitudes through environmental stewardship experience. I was fortunate to be part of a research team which examined the importance of this “source credibility". Our findings indicate that public support depends on perceiving messengers as knowledgeable and trustworthy. By understanding how different audiences interpret water use information, the agricultural industry can help build and maintain positive relationships and broad-based support for sustainable practices. Key Findings Positive Perceptions:  Most respondents viewed agriculture’s water use favorably, believing producers carefully steward resources and support wildlife habitats. Willingness to Pay More:  Many indicated they would accept higher food prices if it ensured water conservation and responsible environmental practices. Source Credibility Counts:  Participants exposed to a farmer spokesperson rated agriculture’s impact on open space and wildlife higher, while those hearing from a conservation group were more inclined to believe negative effects might occur. Practical Recommendations Tailored Messaging:  Shape communications around the spokesperson’s expertise. Farmers resonate on issues of production, while conservation groups excel at highlighting environmental benefits. Strategic Partnerships:  Collaborate with aligned organizations to broaden reach. Seek out partners who offer complementary expertise for maximum credibility. Audience Awareness:  Recognize that demographics, personal experience, and political ideology can affect how a message is received. Testing different messengers can reveal what resonates best with specific audiences. This research highlights the importance of clear, credible communication from sources that audiences trust. As agriculture continues to advance sustainable water strategies, strategic outreach—paired with the right messenger—can impact, and hopefully improve, public understanding and support. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also provided the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Lamm, A. J., Owens, C. T., Telg, R. W., Lamm, K. W. (2016). Influence of source credibility on agricultural water use communication. Journal of Applied Communications, 100 (3). https://doi.org/10.4148/1051-0834.1235

Nepal is very unique environment with rugged terrain and a large agrarian economy , which depends on agriculture for both livelihoods and food security. The country’s topography and history creates an environment which requires innovative, resilient approaches to agriculture and the food system. Developing critical thinking skills in Nepal’s undergraduate student population is very important as these individuals will be the next generation of farmers and policy makers tasked with addressing these complex issues. At the same time, understanding learners’ different styles can help identify how best to share information and best practices. I was excited to be part of a research team exploring how these dimensions—learning styles and critical thinking—intersect among Nepalese students. Key Findings Critical Thinking Differences  – Female students gravitated toward “seeker” styles, while male students preferred “engager” approaches. Academic Progression and Learning Styles  – First-year students showed higher Concrete Experience (CE) preferences, whereas fourth-year students exhibited lower CE preferences. Moderation by Gender  – Gender moderated how “seeker” critical thinking connected with CE learning, with female students showing stronger engagement in experiential tasks. Shifting Preferences Over Time  – The influence of “seeker” style decreased as students advanced academically, indicating evolving learning needs. Practical Recommendations Tailored Teaching  – Depending on group dynamics it may be appropriate to encourage more information-seeking approaches for some students; whereas facilitating discussion and group projects for other students may be more effective. Progressive Curriculum Design  – Integrate hands-on labs and field trips for first-year students; incorporate advanced, real-world case studies in senior-level courses. Strategic Framing  – Present experiential opportunities as data-gathering moments to align with “seeker” learners’ desire for comprehensive information. Flexible Learning Pathways  – Offer diverse activities (CE, RO, AC, AE) to accommodate shifting preferences throughout academic progression. The findings from our study indicate there is a relationship between learning styles and critical thinking. By customizing instruction to align with these preferences agricultural educators in Nepal can foster more resilient, naturally predisposed critical thinking capacities. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments. Lamm, A. J., Lu, P., Lamm, K. W., Oyugi, M. A., & Adhikari, S. (2025). A conceptual exploration of critical thinking style and learning styles: Supporting educational needs in Nepal.  Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 32 (1). https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1451

Needs assessments are essential to ensure that agricultural outreach and programming respond directly to local agricultural production needs. By understanding the precise gaps between what Extension and education professionals believe should be addressed (the “should”) and what is currently being addressed (the “current”), resources and policies can be developed and directed more strategically. Sustainable agriculture, in particular, requires a strong focus on local contexts. Strategies that work in one state or region may not translate seamlessly into another, underscoring the value of targeted, data-driven needs assessments. I'm excited the share the findings from a needs assessment I conducted with several amazing collaborators specifically focused on sustainable agricultural production in the Western United States. Key Findings Smallest Gaps:  Key areas like pesticide safety, livestock production, food safety, food preservation, and crop production appear well-served by current resources. This suggests that while these topics remain important, there may be less need for new program development in these areas. Instead, strategic reinvestment and continued communication of existing initiatives may effectively sustain engagement. Largest Gaps:  Identified gaps included financial disparity, food waste, and engaging with policy makers or decision makers. These gaps imply systemic challenges, underscoring the need for programmatic efforts that address broader context considerations, not just purely technical solutions. Barrier Priorities:  Risk (economic and operational), finances (cost of inputs and practice changes), and time (to experiment or learn) stood out as the primary barriers limiting producer adoption of sustainable agricultural methods. These constraints emphasize that practical realities—like upfront costs and learning curves—are just as important as foundational knowledge. Practical Use Resource Allocation:  Direct programmatic funding and administrative support toward bridging the largest gaps. For example, new or revised grants, sponsored workshops, and partnerships with financial institutions or local governments may help address challenges such as policy connections. Tailored Extension Efforts:  Develop outreach and education activities that demonstrate concrete ways to mitigate perceived risks and ease the burdens of time investment. Sharing clear success stories from producers who have integrated sustainable practices—especially those operating within similar local contexts—can help others feel more confident in the potential of these methods. Longitudinal Tracking:  Conduct ongoing needs assessments to monitor how these gaps shift over time. By routinely collecting data, Extension and education professionals can refine initiatives, explore emerging concerns, and ensure that program offerings continue to align with actual producer needs as new challenges arise. These findings highlight how local needs assessments can ensure more effective sustainable agriculture programs. By addressing both technical and contextual challenges, Extension and education professionals can develop solutions tailored to local needs. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., Trojan, S., Sanders, C. E., Byrd, A. R., (2023).  A needs assessment to inform research and outreach efforts for sustainable agricultural practices and food production in the Western United States.  Foods , 12 (8), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12081630

Extension networks are an important part of the agricultural and food system, facilitating knowledge transfer, innovation, and improved practices for smallholder farmers around the world. In Malawi—a country where agriculture accounts for nearly 30% of the GDP and supports millions of livelihoods—robust extension services are essential. Yet, rural communities often struggle to retain qualified extension providers. Based on a project I worked on with several amazing colleagues we were able to observe some novel new approaches the Malawi Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services Delivery (MaFAAS) is using to improve the provision of extension services. By focusing on new approaches to recruitment, training, and collaboration, organizations such as MaFAAS are leading important efforts and helping to ensure that rural farmers receive the professional support they require. Key Findings High Attrition Rates  – Persistent turnover among rural extension providers impedes reliable service delivery. Professionalization Gaps  – Limited certification, training, and private-sector involvement leave many farmers underserved. MaFAAS as a Bridge  – Through policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement, MaFAAS fosters collaboration to address extension shortages. Innovative Recruitment Model  – Adapting rural-focused strategies from other sectors helps retain agents familiar with local contexts, agriculture, and food systems. Practical Recommendations Strategic Partnering  – Collaborate with government and NGOs to create clear guidelines and standards for extension services. Community-Centered Recruitment  – Prioritize local talent for rural placements, thereby boosting retention and enhancing community rapport. Structured Policy Engagement  – Follow established models (e.g., Kotter, Policy Leadership Theory) to align resources and commitments. Ongoing Support Systems  – Advocate for necessary resources—transportation, protective gear, etc.—to sustain extension personnel. By improving extension agents’ recruitment, training, and retention in rural areas, Malawi is enhancing farmers’ access to critical information and best practices. The study findings highlight the value of coordinated action, policy alignment, and consistent advocacy. I've included the full manuscript below if you would like to read more. Please be sure to provide your insights using the comments. Lamm, K. W., Masambuka-Kanchewa F., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Nahdy, S., & Oyugi, M. A. (2021). A case study analysis of extension service provision in Malawi. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 17 (11), 1386-1392 . https://doi.org/10.5897/AJAR2021.15781

Extension and rural advisory services (RAS) are important to help ensure a safe and resilient food systems worldwide. With growing population demands and limited resources, Extension providers play a key role in supporting farmers and communities. However, strengthening these efforts requires more than individual expertise; moving from informal to more professional recognition for Extension services is important to build both trust and perceived value. In certain international contexts Extension services are not always centrally administered or managed, leaving the potential for some Extension providers to not necessarily have the background nor expertise to provide needed services. Working with a great team of researchers we wanted to identify the critical capacities necessary for Extension networks to establish professionalization standards. Key Findings Capacity Building : Most identified capacities revolve around access to knowledge, resources, and technologies, emphasizing the interconnected nature of Extension networks. Professional Milestones : Professionalization does not happen spontaneously; rather, networks must progress through structured milestones. (A great resource is Abbott (1991): https://doi.org/10.1177/0730888491018004001 ) Shared Norms & Values : A shared sense of purpose across Extension networks encourages coherent communication and develops a supportive environment for practitioners. Context Matters : The diverse experiences and perspectives of global Extension professionals underscore the importance of customizing capacity-building efforts to local conditions. Practical Recommendations Assess Network Maturity : Determine if the network is aligned, has the right actors engaged, and is committed to collective goals before initiating professionalization strategies. Formalize Standards : Establish associations or committees to develop and enforce professional benchmarks, promoting consistency across contexts. Leverage Conceptual Frameworks : Utilize established frameworks to guide professionalization efforts (e.g. knowledge management ), helping to support efforts. Use Diagnostic Tools : Use empirical instruments to evaluate network readiness, plan capacity-building activities, and facilitate common understanding among stakeholders. Our hope with this research is to provide Extension networks a set of research findings to help guide and engage in meaningful conversations about professionalization. Using other models (law, medicine, etc.) Extension networks may be able to leverage best practices and implement an approach which helps promote consistency and standards, and thus helping to support stakeholders more effectively. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Swaroop, B. J., & Edgar, L. D. (2020). Identifying capacities needed for professionalization of extension networks. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education , 27 (2), 91-107. https://doi.org/10.5191/jiaee.2020.27291

Agricultural leadership development programs are very important for a safe and resilient food system. They equip participants to address a range of complex tasks like managing resources and adapting to critical issues. We were interested in looking at what influences participant satisfaction with such programs. We examined the possible relationship between program directors and program participants based on leader-member exchange (LMX) , which looks at how each side trusts and supports the other. In other research this dynamic can influence performance, satisfaction, and other important outcomes. Based on our research we were able to determine whether LMX contributed to overall participant satisfaction. Key Findings Strong Director-Participant Relationships : Many participants described respectful, positive interactions with their program directors. These interactions supported a sense of trust and encouraged open communication about program goals. Demographic Factors : Demographics showed no direct link to satisfaction. This suggests that people from various backgrounds found the program valuable. Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) : The quality of the director-participant relationship emerged as a clear factor in how satisfied participants felt. This finding highlights the importance of personal engagement. Practical Recommendations Regularly Assess LMX : Gather data on director-participant relationships at planned intervals. This approach helps reveal when adjustments could enhance the learning environment. Bring in External Evaluators : Independent evaluations can encourage honest feedback, which helps directors refine methods to better meet participant needs. Examine Additional Influences : Factors like program content, peer support, or mentorship could also shape participant satisfaction. Adding these measures may capture a fuller picture. Encourage Ongoing Conversation : Frequent check-ins or feedback sessions can show participants that their opinions matter, creating a more responsive and interactive experience. Conclusion Strong director-participant relationships can boost satisfaction and in turn, encourage leadership growth. The importance of a resilient food system is critical, helping to create supportive environments for the next generation of agricultural leaders to develop is an important part of the process. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to read more. Please be sure to share your insights using the Comments below. Lamm, K. W., & Priest, K. L. (2019). Evaluating the role of leader member exchange in leadership development program satisfaction. Journal of Agricultural Education , 60 (3), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2019.03001

Extension networks play an important role in translating agricultural research into practical solutions. They connect farmers, organizations, policymakers, and others, ensuring resources and expertise are available when needed. Based on a project with the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) , I worked with a team of amazing collaborators to develop an empirical scale for Extension networks to assess their advocacy capacity. Advocacy is important for Extension networks to be able to represent stakeholder interests and building resilience across the food system. Our study developed and validated an instrument to assess advocacy capacity in international extension networks. Based on Lewin’s Organizational Change Theory, we identified five factors—support, integration, influence, performance, and visibility—that show how networks gather resources, adopt new methods, and sustain momentum. Key Findings Clear Priorities : The instrument identified areas where advocacy efforts need attention, such as building strategic alliances and communicating with policymakers. Holistic Approach : It looks at how networks integrate advocacy into ongoing activities, helping leaders and stakeholders identify different responsibilities. Improved Visibility : By assessing performance and outreach, networks can see if they are reaching the right audiences and making an impact. Practical Recommendations Set Measurable Goals : Extension networks can use the instrument to define progress goals for advocacy efforts. For example, identify networks might set policy engagement or collaborative program targets and track how well these goals are met. Strengthen Collaboration : Focus on shared advocacy tasks. Networks should develop teams that monitor policy changes and share resources across different networks and organizations. Encourage Ongoing Feedback : Integrate the tool into regular evaluations to see if network members feel supported, know their roles, and see results from their advocacy efforts. Invest in Training : Provide leadership development and communication workshops so network members can effectively represent stakeholder interests and needs. By applying this new instrument, Extension networks can identify areas for potential improvements, increase advocacy efforts, and better support the stakeholders they represent. I've included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Please be sure to share your insights in the comments. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Sanders, C. E., & Powell, A. (2021). Development and validation of the international extension network advocacy capacity scale. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28 (5), 65-95. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1029

As an 11 year 4-H member myself, I have personally experienced the positive benefits of the program. I was therefore very excited to work on a study with several amazing collaborators to identify to core strengths of the Georgia 4-H program. It is well established that 4-H and other youth development programs are important options for developing responsible, community-focused leaders. 4-H offers structured activities that promote practical skills, empathy, character, and service. By identifying top strengths in the Georgia 4-H program, our goal was to provide a framework and foundation for future 4-H and youth development programs and research - more specifically, what is working and how can programs better leverage these strengths? We also connected these strengths to established youth development theories, identifying how participants gain confidence, practical life skills, and beneficial relationships with leaders and volunteers. Key Findings Robust Strengths : We found a range of core strengths, including strong leadership frameworks and supportive environments, important to 4-H’s continued success. Five C’s Alignment : Competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring emerged as guiding principles for positive youth development. Character and Life Skills : Core traits like problem-solving, empathy, and integrity help support individual growth and align with broader organizational goals. Leadership Development : Mentorship and real-world experiences give youth opportunities to build professional and personal competencies and connections. Practical Recommendations Layer Multiple Domains : Programs should look for opportunities to blend leadership, character-building, and life-skills activities to deepen engagement within different domain areas (for example linking public speaking and community engagement within the beef project) to further reflect 4-H’s values. Promote Engagement : Emphasize different opportunities to participate and engage so that all participants can see themselves represented and can learn from each other’s backgrounds. Strengthen Organizational Behaviors : Leaders and volunteers serve as important role models for program youth, finding opportunities to demonstrate behaviors such as emotional intelligence, clear communication, and accountability can be very powerful. Refine Programming : Adjust curricula and events to showcase the program’s strongest traits - focusing on programmatic strengths can help to ensure youth have a positive and productive experience. By focusing on these core strengths the 4-H program can continue to provide a robust learning platform for developing tomorrow's leaders. Please be sure to share your insights using the comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to learn more. Powell, A., Scaduto, J. J., & Lamm, K. W. (2021). Perceived strengths of the Georgia 4-H program: A delphi analysis. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension , 9 (3), 32-51. https://www.jhseonline.com/article/view/1124

Rural stress affects farm families, local economies, and the broader food system. Extension agents often serve as a first line of support, seeking to translate complex health information into practical help. Understanding how agents see stress in their communities can help inform efforts and address needs. A few years ago, I was fortunate to collaborate with some amazing colleagues on a study looking at district level differences related to stressors such as finances, weather, and mental‑health risks. The hope is that these insights can shape programs that meet local needs rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all approach. Key Findings Stress Varies by Place: Agents reported higher stress in South Georgia counties, showing the need for location‑specific programs. Finance is a Top Concern: Cash‑flow concerns, market volatility, and access to credit were leading stressors across districts. Weather Adds Pressure: Hurricanes and unpredictable conditions intensified stress, especially in farming regions hit by recent storms. Mental‑Health Risks Are Visible: Agents noted rising concern about suicide and substance misuse, linking farm stress to personal well‑being. Trusted Messengers Matter: Farmers look to Extension for reliable information, confirming agents’ unique role as community connectors. Practical Recommendations Tailor Outreach by Local Needs: Use local data to match resources—for example, financial planning in one county or district, disaster relief workshops in another. Train Agents in Mental‑Health First Aid: Equip Extension professionals to spot warning signs and share referral options with families and farm workers. Build Partnerships with Clinics and Faith Groups: Leverage existing trust networks to spread information beyond Extension offices. Create Quick‑Reference Guides: Develop simple handouts on stress resources, hotlines, and coping tips for field visits and meetings. Evaluate and Adjust: Gather feedback after each program cycle to refine content, timing, and delivery channels. When Extension helps address local sources of stress and strengthens mental‑health links, rural families gain tools to the support they need. Since this research was published, the University of Georgia has launched the Rural Georgia: Growing Stronger ( https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/timely-topics/Rural.html ) campaign and focus area. This site has links to valuable resources and can help serve as a hub for those interested in learning more about rural and farm stress. For national context on rural health, visit the CDC’s rural health portal ( https://www.cdc.gov/rural-health/php/about/ ). Please share your insights using the comments below. I've also posted the full article if you would like to learn more.

Plants play a critical role in human well-being. Sure, they are pretty, but they also contribute to physical, mental, and environmental health. It’s important to recognize the profound impact of plants on our lives, especially given the serious issues facing the horticulture industry. Those issues were highlighted in a study that I completed with several colleagues. We hope the results of this study provide a roadmap for the future by pointing out the issues and opportunities that exist. Key Findings: Disease and Pest Management Challenges: Significant threats are posed by emerging pests and pathogens. Existing pest management strategies may be losing effectiveness. Production Challenges and Innovations: It is necessary for significant reforms in horticulture production practices to be executed. Production in horticulture should be focused on sustainability, automation, and precision agriculture. Issues around profitability, evolving consumer preferences, and unreliable supply chains need to be addressed. Education, Research, and Recruitment Needs: Formal horticulture education programs need to be improved. Progress can be made through distance education programs and more robust recruitment efforts. Labor Challenges and Considerations: One of the biggest threats to the industry is a serious shortage of skilled, manual, and technical workers. Labor challenges can be addressed through educational training and recruitment incentives. Environmental Conditions and Natural Resource Availability: Resource availability and overall production are being impacted by changing environmental conditions. COVID-19 Impacts: It’s important to note that this study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. It outlines 14 issues that were linked to the pandemic, including supply chain disruptions, a boon in home gardening, and the shortage of available skilled labor. Next Steps... By identifying 34 unique issues through a Delphi process, this study offers an updated understanding of the modern challenges and opportunities facing horticulture. It can be used as a guide for resource allocation, education, and research. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments below. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., & Lombardini, L. (2021). Identifying critical issues in the horticulture industry: A delphi analysis during the covid-19 pandemic. Horticulturae, 7(11), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7110416

The agricultural landscape of Uganda was targeted for transformation back in 2011. It was the Uganda Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS) that was tasked with this mission, and it was given a particular focus on topics including policy, youth engagement, food security, and climate-smart agriculture. It aimed to bring in an era of innovation and efficiency across agricultural advisory services. The Nokia Farming Agricultural Innovation Platform UFAAS: The Catalyst for Change The agricultural extension system across many countries in Africa, including Uganda, underwent a dramatic transformation with the introduction of NAADS, the National Agricultural Advisory Services Act. This shifted the public extension system to a more privatized one. It was the goal of this act to improve upon the status quo, which often saw a single extension professional serving as many as 2,000 farmers. Advocating Professionalism and Ethical Standards Proactive steps were taken early on by UFAAS to set professional and ethical standards in this space. The objective was to promote professionalism and ethics in the agricultural extension and advisory system in Uganda. These efforts proved successful in 2017 when they were invited to support the development of essential documents such as Extension Guidelines, an Ethical Code of Conduct, and more. The documents were eventually approved by the management team of the Ministry for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. This was a significant milestone and a notable achievement. Supporting Youth in Agriculture Engaging the young people of Uganda in agriculture is one of the key targets of UFAAS. Youth unemployment rates across Uganda are high and much of the country faces food security challenges. The need to bridge the gap and connect unemployed youth to agricultural career opportunities was obvious. Unfortunately, several challenges persisted. Changing Perceptions: Young people commonly see agriculture as being “dirty work” and not a reasonable long-term career option. Resource Constraints: It’s difficult for anyone interested in agriculture to acquire everything that is needed to get started, including land, resources, and capital. Lack of Exposure: Many of the young people in Uganda had very little exposure to agriculture and didn’t understand the basics of the industry. The NOFAIP-UFAAS Partnership UFAAS’s efforts can perhaps be best seen in the case of the Nokia Farming Agricultural Innovation Platform, or NOFAIP. Less than 20 members were a part of the program initially in 2010, but it quickly grew to over 300 members in just seven years. When NOFAIP decided to join UFAAS as dues-paying members, it marked a meaningful shift and unlocked a tremendous amount of knowledge and resources. UFAAS's Approach: Training and Support UFAAS's collaboration with NOFAIP followed a well-structured approach: Understanding Needs: Authentic engagement with NOFAIP enables UFAAS to fully understand their requirements and what they need to thrive. Assessing Capabilities: It was not only necessary to evaluate current capabilities, but also to understand desired capabilities that were not held at the time. Identifying Resources: NOFAIP members were provided access to valuable training materials and resources. Coordinating Training: Training opportunities were created to empower NOFAIP members with the latest skills and practices. Ongoing Support: A steady support system was established so that NOFAIP members could receive the help they needed, even as those needs changed over time. Knowledge Exchange: A collection of best practices was created through a collaboration with NOFAIP leadership, serving to enhance future training. Impact on NOFAIP and Ugandan Youth There can be little doubt as to the impact of NOFAIP. The organization has been successful by any measure, with 84 of the more than 300 members actively involved in agriculture. Many different services are available, including crop spraying, plowing, planting, weeding, irrigation, fertilizing, threshing, and many more. The benefit of the support of UFAAS is clear when looking at the case study of how NOFAIP has flourished.   Quite quickly, the young people in NOFAIP have become a powerful force in the field. They have valuable skills, and have produced higher yields through using updated agricultural practices. As one example, these young professionals have been able to identify and address threats like the citrus canker to prevent whole crops from being devastated. The Bigger Picture The UFAAS is playing a commendable role in tapping into the potential of the youth of Uganda. It has also driven notable agricultural development in the country. This case study highlights the value found in training, empowerment, and knowledge exchange across the agricultural sector. Nations across the African continent can learn from the example that Uganda is setting in building a platform on which a sustainable agricultural framework can be built. I've included a copy of the research below if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to include your thoughts and input in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Mulvaney, C., Davis, K., Masambuka, F., & Nahdy, S. (2021). Model of success: Extension services helping Ugandan youth find a career in agriculture. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(3), 7-13.