Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Communication plays a crucial role in the agricultural research and innovation process by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and information among various stakeholders such as researchers, farmers, policymakers, and other actors in the agriculture sector. Effective communication is essential for ensuring that research findings are disseminated, understood, and utilized to drive innovation, improve agricultural practices, and address challenges facing the industry. This research project explores the significance of communication in agricultural research and innovation, focusing on how different communication strategies and channels can be utilized to enhance collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer in the agricultural sector. The study examines the role of various communication tools, including traditional media, digital platforms, extension services, and interpersonal networks, in bridging the gap between researchers and end-users, such as farmers and agribusinesses. By analyzing case studies and best practices from different regions and countries, the research highlights the importance of tailoring communication approaches to the specific needs and contexts of different agricultural communities. It emphasizes the need for clear, targeted, and accessible communication that considers the diverse backgrounds, languages, and literacy levels of stakeholders involved in the research and innovation process. Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of effective communication on the adoption of new technologies, practices, and innovations in agriculture. It explores how communication can influence farmer behavior, decision-making processes, and attitudes towards change, ultimately leading to improved productivity, sustainability, and resilience in the agricultural sector. In conclusion, the research underscores the critical role of communication in fostering collaboration, building trust, and promoting knowledge exchange in agricultural research and innovation. It emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive communication processes that engage stakeholders at all levels, from researchers and policymakers to farmers and consumers. By enhancing communication strategies and practices in the agricultural sector, this research aims to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable solutions to address the complex challenges facing agriculture today.

Thesis Overview

According to Grenier (1998), this story prompts several important questions: Did anyone bother to ask the local people who, how, where, when, and why of their local palm-oil production system? By learning about the local production system, could the proponents have avoided any of these costly failures? If the researchers had established joint ventures with the communities, could development objectives and sustainable-development goals have been served? If participatory technology-development techniques had been tried, could hybrid technologies (a combination of indigenous and foreign inputs) have yielded successful ventures? What would have been the outcome had any of these proponents worked with the indigenous people.