The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) has developed the National Extension and Advisory Services Policy to address a number of extension and advisory services related challenges and improve the image of the service through specific interventions.
The Policy builds on the National Framework for Extension Recovery Plan (ERP) which is a government programme to capacitate and revitalise extension and advisory services. Two of the five key objectives of the ERP (i.e. Pillar 1 & 2) are: a) to ensure visibility and accountability of extension and b) to promote professionalism and improve the image of extension.
DAFF has therefore prioritised the development of a National Corporate Wear/Uniform and Protective Clothing Policy for Extension Practitioners. The policy sets a framework to guide DAFF and Provincial Departments of Agriculture (PDAs) in terms of design, requisition, procurement, issuance and conditions of usage of the uniform. The professional image of Extension Practitioners significantly contributes to the way in which extension and advisory services are regarded by producers, processors, and the public at large.
DAFF visited the Northern Cape DARD on the 18th October 2016 as part of the provincial roadshows that began in late July 2016. The main objective is to consult Extension Practitioners on the uniform specifications with particular emphasis on the design and quality of fabric. Extension Practitioners throughout the province attended in their numbers and made valuable inputs during the meeting.
A presentation was delivered by DAFF which highlighted the policy development process and outlined key policy issues such as what items comprised the uniform package; issuance, disposal and general rules of practice including budgetary implications and dispute resolution mechanisms just to name a few. Thereafter, Extension Practitioners were given five different uniform samples to view on display. Extension Practitioners of the DARD in the Northern Cape Province engaged in a robust voting process whereby democratic rule prevailed to vote for the preferred uniform sample.
DAFF officials emphasized that the policy takes into consideration issues of seasonality, particularly extreme climatic conditions experienced in different provinces whilst also acknowledging various working conditions of Extension Practitioners. It is hoped that having consulted the province, once the policy is implemented, wearing of uniform will instil a sense of pride and professionalism among Extension Practitioners and aid the general public to easily identify with this important service within farming communities in the province.
For further enquiries, kindly contact:Ms Nonhlanzeko Nonkumbulo Mthembu
Assistant Director: National Extension Reform
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Tel: 012 319 6524/6109 E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.