Extension Philosophy

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My extension philosophy is based on a system’s approach, where knowledge is built accounting for both agricultural, ecological, social and economic aspects of agricultural systems. Beyond that, knowledge is formed integrating all components and actors of the system. Through concepts of co-design applied to agricultural innovation systems we need to consider the perspectives of the people in the field, and create, with them, solutions that are applicable to their situations. The idea is not to just creating knowledge but also understand how knowledge can be used in new and beneficial ways. Extension for me is more than technology transfer: it is a communication channel to help scientists understand the needs and reality of producers, and to help the producers in interpreting and adapting recommended research practices into their systems. And, for that, we need more than just a problem-solving approach, we need a broad perspective to understand all agents and mechanisms involved in the given scenario. And, for that, we need to build solid and productive relationships, tend for the needs of agents and farmers, and help them finding their solutions.