Author : Souvanthong Namvong

Summary : The study sought to analyze the farmer driven approach and its contribution to the implementation of the village extension system (VES) in six districts of selected provinces of Lao People's Democratic Republic (LAO PDR). Results revealed that both individual (age, ethnic group, income, perceived effectiveness of VES and motivation) and organizational-related factors (LGU support, linkage mechanism, community members' responsiveness and cohesiveness, and feeling of ownership) influenced the extent of participation of stakeholders in the projects of the VES. Moreover, respondents were unanimous in the perceived contribution of VES in empowering them through acquisition of individual and collective assets and capabilities which made them more capable in actively partaking in the activities of the VES in their respective villages. With the findings of the present study, it is deemed necessary that VES establish interventions of broader coverage to increase farmers' participation in all phases of the project cycle. Trainings in partnership with other institutions should emphasize not only "hard" but also "soft" skills which include the range of skills necessary to promote farmer to farmer extension such as communication skills development, public speaking and leadership to boost confidence of stakeholders. Home-based programs like weaving and handicrafts are worth considering to support sustainable livelihood. Increased visibility of government staff, distribution of quality and simplified extension materials to attract a wider readership, creation of cooperatives and group savings funds are also suggested. Finally, it is recommended that the concept of empowerment be expanded in practice to embrace the promotion of collective assets and capabilities. Relative to this, further studies should be done to study the promotion or the creation of common funds.