Aim and Scope

International Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development ISSN 2756-3642 publishes cutting-edge research that advances understanding and analysis of contemporary  extension education, rural societies, economies, cultures and lifestyles, rural policy, rural environment and so on. The journal is an interdisciplinary platform and welcomes articles from diverse theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches, which engage with and contribute to the rural social science literature, as broadly defined by the disciplines of rural geography, rural sociology, agricultural and rural economics, planning and cognate subjects.

The coverage of the journal is global in scope and solicits articles based on empirical research in any part of the world that is of relevance and interest to international readers. The primary audiences of the journal are social science researchers, teachers and students interested in contemporary rural issues, processes and experiences.

International Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development also publishes both academic and non-academic research articles. Multidisciplinary in nature, the primary purpose of the journal is to share knowledge on all aspects that contribute to sustainable rural development all over the world.

The following are the aims of the journal:

  • It aims to share lessons and experiences on working with rural communities to improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
  • It also intends to publish conceptual papers and empirical research that tests, extends, or builds agricultural extension theory and contributes to the practice of extension worldwide.
  • The journal is dedicated to the cause of advancing understanding of extension systems through empirical investigations, theoretical analyses, and practical experiences.
  • To provide authoritative reference that deals with extension systems in both emerging and developed economies. The content extends from the role of extension to organizational models and extension methodologies (use and impact of different methods and media, from the most traditional to innovative ICTs).
  • Articles about linkages with education, applied research and knowledge creation are also welcome, to analyze how extension cooperates with agricultural policy, education, applied research, producers and other agents of the agri-food chains.
  • Taking into account the growing difficulties generated by climate change, articles are invited about how extension is adapting its message and methods to deal with the effects of climate change, as well as with food security issues. Contributions are also invited about extension for non food contents: extension for the diversification of rural incomes, environment, agro-tourism, etc.
  • Extension activities for special groups are invited: women, elderly, youth, ethnic minorities, as well as extension for rehabilitation after conflicts and natural disasters.
  • Articles may also cover aspects related to the education of extension agents, their continuing education, job satisfaction, career prospects and eventually turn over. The management of advisory systems / agencies is another relevant issue: planning, monitoring and evaluation, with or without participatory methods.
  • Articles may be research based, when primary data are used, with appropriate methods and adequate statistical analysis, or they may be literature based, when only pre-existing documents, also unpublished articles and books are used by the authors to elaborate their opinion.

Subject areas include, but are not limited to the following fields:

  • Agricultural development
  • Rural development
  • Biotechnology
  • Education and Extension
  • Employment
  • Health and nutrition
  • Land and Water Resources
  • Land reform
  • Micro-finance
  • Policy and development
  • Social welfare and rural development

The journal creates opportunities for professionals and students to publish intellectual, creative work, nurtures emerging scholars and new authors for success; encourages professional development; and advances the theory and practice of agricultural extension and rural development.

The journal covers a wide range of topics within the realm of agricultural extension and rural development, including but not limited to:

  • Agricultural Extension Methodologies: Exploration of traditional and modern extension strategies, including participatory approaches, technology-driven methods, and grassroots innovations.

  • Extension Systems Design and Management: Research on the development, implementation, and evaluation of effective extension systems, including public, private, and community-based models.

  • Farmer Education and Capacity Building: Studies on educational programs that empower farmers and rural communities with knowledge and skills to improve agricultural practices, productivity, and sustainability.

  • Use of Digital and Information Technologies in Extension: Examination of how digital tools, mobile technologies, and online platforms are transforming extension services and enhancing communication between extension professionals and farming communities.

  • Policy and Institutional Frameworks: Analysis of national and international policies, frameworks, and institutional arrangements that support or hinder the effectiveness of agricultural extension and education systems.

  • Rural Development and Community Engagement: Research on how extension education contributes to rural development initiatives, community resilience, and the empowerment of marginalized groups.

  • Knowledge Transfer and Communication: Studies on strategies for improving the dissemination of agricultural knowledge, innovations, and best practices through effective communication channels and extension services.

  • Sustainability and Climate Change Adaptation: Exploration of the role of extension education in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, conservation, and adaptation to climate change impacts

IJAERD is a rigorous, peer-reviewed journal that brings the scholarship engagement to educators and practitioners around the world.