TVM COA EXTN

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULURAL EXTENSION EDUCATION

ABOUT

The Department of Agricultural Extension was established in the Vellayani campus in 1962 as a central facility for education, research & training in the discipline of Agricultural Extension Education. M. Sc. (Ag) Programme in Agricultural Extension was initiated in 1976 with an annual intake of four students. PhD programme was started in 1984. The Rural Agricultural Work Experience programme for B.Sc (Ag) students is coordinated by this department.

The major thrust of research is on agricultural communication, extension management, training & development, participatory approaches, women empowerment & other frontier areas in agricultural extension. The Department of Agricultural Extension offers 8 courses for B. Sc. (Hons) Agriculture ( old syllabus ) and 4 core courses + 5 optional course as per the revised syllabus. The department provides 10 seats for M. Sc. and 4 seats for Ph. D. programmes. Lab & other facilities offered by the department include 2 seminar halls with audio-visual aids facilities, media lab, cyber lab & video conferencing hall at the department. Museum cum information centre where the information on activities & other details of agricultural extension is highlighted on the blowups. Models of Integrated farming systems, vertical gardening, persevered specimens of major pest and disease of crop plants are also exhibited.

VISION

To be a leading force in transforming agriculture through innovative extension services, knowledge dissemination, and community engagement.

MISSION

Empowering farmers, fostering sustainable practices, and bridging the gap between research and rural communities.

On and Off-Campus Trainings:

- The Extension Department organizes both on-campus and off-campus training programs. These sessions aim to enhance the knowledge and skills of participants in various agricultural and related fields.
- On-campus trainings typically take place within the COA premises and cover topics such as crop cultivation techniques, pest management, soil health, and sustainable practices.
- Off-campus trainings involve reaching out to farmers, rural communities, and other stakeholders. These sessions may be conducted at local farms, community centers, or other relevant locations.

Capacity Building Programs:

- Capacity building programs focus on empowering individuals and communities by enhancing their abilities, knowledge, and resources.
- The Extension Department designs workshops, seminars, and hands-on sessions to build capacities in areas such as agribusiness, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agriculture.
- These programs equip participants with practical skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to the agricultural sector.

Conducting Seminars:

- Seminars are an essential part of knowledge dissemination and networking.
- The Extension Department hosts seminars on various topics related to agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and allied fields.
- Distinguished speakers, researchers, and practitioners are invited to share their expertise, research findings, and insights during these events.

Farm Visits:

- Farm visits provide an opportunity for students, farmers, and extension workers to observe real-world agricultural practices.
- Participants visit local farms, research stations, and model farms to learn about innovative techniques, crop varieties, and successful farming models.
- These visits foster practical learning and encourage the adoption of best practices.

Method Demonstrations:

- Method demonstrations involve showcasing specific agricultural practices, technologies, or equipment.
- Extension officers and experts demonstrate techniques such as organic farming, precision agriculture, and post-harvest handling.
- Participants gain firsthand experience and learn how to implement these methods effectively.

Skill Development and Entrepreneurial Promotion:

- Skill development programs focus on honing practical skills relevant to agriculture and allied sectors.
- The Extension Department encourages entrepreneurship by providing training in value addition, marketing, and business development.
- Participants are empowered to start their own ventures, contribute to rural livelihoods, and promote sustainable practices.