Perceived Competencies of Agriculture Extension Workers in Extension Services Delivery in Northern Region of Ghana, Perspective from Literature

Abstract

This study is an exploration of literature on perceived competencies of workers in the agriculture industry.  Extensive literature is reviewed on the topic and related to the need of people in the agriculture sector in northern region of Ghana to help facilitate increased production of agriculture produce.  The study sought to identify the current level of competencies possess by extension workers in the northern region and which level of these competencies are used.  Finding of other authors has been reviewed and compared to the current level of competencies possessed by extension workers.  The importance of competencies are revealed as found by researchers in the field of competencies.  A comparison of the literature to the Ghanaian situation is attempted, demonstration of made on how competencies can help facilitate the work of agricultural extension workers.  Conclusions are drawn and key suggestions made to help guide policy makers and financing partners in agriculture to help formulation policies that will help build the needed competencies in people to enable them function well in the agriculture industry in Ghana. This study is based on literature on the subject.   This paper also analyse the relevance of competencies in agriculture extension services delivery.

Keywords: Perceived competencies, Extension service, Abilities, Communication, Performance