Extension information and communication are essential components of the development process; and yet these systems are rarely well integrated into development strategies and programmes. For example, the rush to develop Internet access in developing countries needs to be adjusted to the context of already established and effective communication systems, and attention needs to be paid to bridging the rural digital divide between those who can afford access to the new technologies and those who cannot. A very important consideration is that information technology tools should facilitate the work of extension agents, not replace them.
Stakeholder participation in decision-making processes is crucial and requires multi-sectoral collaboration and partnerships.
Partnership is another way of saying "coordination". There are numerous, and interrelated, actors involved in development. Recognizing this pluralistic environment means that extension must become more "extraverted" and cooperate with other agencies within the public sector and with various organizations in the private sector.
G. Bizzarri/FAO/16991
