Professional extension support : a prerequisite for sustainable irrigation development

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the concepts profession, professional and professionalism and reflects on the general perceptions for professional extension support in irrigation management perceived by small-scale and commercial irrigation farmers. It also portrays the findings on the assessment of the technical competence and knowledge of irrigation extensionists. Possible barriers why irrigation extensionists often lack to do their work in a professional manner are discussed. A discussion of several recommendations that might help to restore the self-esteem of individuals and improve the service delivery of the irrigation extension profession concludes the paper.