Understanding, dialoguing, and collaborating

reflections about technical advising in the agricultural sector

Abstract

Working in a development project in a small rural area a university extension group from th research center "Dr. Mario A. Cassinoni" (EEMAC). This work has encouraged reflection about the opportunities and problems existing in technical advising and about the ways in which the methods can be improved and sustained. The producers' lack of confidence in technical advising arose as one of the problems inhibiting the development of family enterprises.

In this article, it is proposed that technical advising is a complex phenomenon with no single solution to resolve technical problems. A method of inquiry and extension from France offers an alternative approach to methods of technical assistance and advising (which are based on maximizing farmers' economic profitability). In contrast, the French model relies on a participatory and systemic approach which involves producers in the needs assessment process in regard to technical and economic advise, or assistance. The methodology is known as Holistic Approaches to Agricultural Enterprises and is discussed in relation to the application of new techniques in a specific context a rural area in Uruguay (Colonia 19 de Abril, Departament of Paysandú).