Analyzing the Mechanisms of Agricultural University Participation in Agricultural Extension Affairs

Agricultural universities have axial role in the Agricultural Knowledge and Information System (AKIS) along with well-known functions, including teaching, research and services. Unfortunately in Iran the third function i.e. University Outreach Services, have not had their positive impact on agricultural extension system. Regarding this problem, this research was carried out with the aim of identification and analysis of the mechanisms of strengthening participation and integration of agricultural universities in rural and agricultural extension affairs. The research was conducted based upon survey strategy. Thus, data were gathered through a questionnaire as the research tool. Statistics population included two groups, namely agricultural university faculties and experts of Extension and Production System, Deputy of Jehad-e-Agriculture Ministry. Sample size for university faculties group was 130 and for the second group 145 persons. Data were analyzed by SPSS 11.5 and the main technique used was"R-type factor analysis". Research results indicated the existence of five factors, as underlying components of analyzed mechanisms. Extracted factors explained %72.39 of the variances of analyzed mechanisms, in total. These factors were extracted and respeclively labeled as: Supportive Policies(%16.95), Extension Education Services(%13.87) , Research Services(%10.65),Technical and Advisory Services(%9.75), and Institutional Development(%9.38) .According to the research findings, effective implemenation of the explained mechanisms required the set up of a joint committee, including staff experts of both ministries, to meet during regular appropriate meetings to appropriate policies.