IMPLEMENTASI PENDEKATAN PARTISIPATIF DALAM PENYULUHAN PERTANIAN PADA USAHATANI PADI SAWAH DI KELURAHAN BARUGA KOTA KENDARI

Abstract

Agricultural extension plays a crucial role in enhancing farmers' capacity by facilitating innovation dissemination, strengthening technical competencies, and fostering farmers' self-reliance in farm management. The paradigm shift from conventional instructional extension toward a participatory approach positions farmers as active stakeholders who are directly involved throughout the extension process. This study aimed to analyze the implementation of the participatory approach in agricultural extension for lowland rice farming in Baruga Village, Kendari City, Indonesia. A qualitative research approach with a descriptive design was employed. Informants were selected using purposive sampling, which was subsequently expanded through snowball sampling until data saturation was achieved. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, consisting of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The trustworthiness of the findings was ensured through source, technique, and time triangulation. The results revealed that the participatory approach had been implemented across six stages of the agricultural extension process, namely preparation, participatory assessment, participatory planning, extension implementation, participatory monitoring and evaluation, and follow-up. Its implementation was reflected in farmers' active involvement in needs identification, planning, group discussions, farmer field schools, technology demonstrations, activity evaluation, and the formulation of follow-up actions. The participatory approach enhanced two-way communication, strengthened the learning process, improved farmers' knowledge and technical skills, and encouraged the adoption of innovations in lowland rice cultivation. Nevertheless, its implementation has not yet reached an optimal level due to the unequal participation of farmer group members, the predominance of extension agents in documenting extension activities, and the lack of continuous mentoring and follow-up. Therefore, strengthening the capacity of agricultural extension agents, increasing the participation of all farmer group members, and developing sustainable mentoring mechanisms are essential to establish a more participatory, effective, and sustainable agricultural extension system that supports farmers' capacity development and the sustainability of lowland rice farming.