Enhancing Agricultural Extension Through Digital Tools: Evidence from Quantitative Analysis in Pakistan

  • Ahsan Hassan Khan
Keywords: Agricultural extension, digital tools, technology adoption, Pakistan, quantitative analysis

Abstract

Agricultural extension services are vital for improving farmers’ knowledge and promoting the adoption of improved practices. Digital tools, including mobile applications, SMS alerts, and social media, have emerged as innovative channels for knowledge dissemination. This study investigates the impact of digital tools on knowledge transfer and adoption of agricultural practices among farmers in Pakistan. A quantitative survey was conducted with 400 farmers using stratified random sampling. Structured questionnaires measured digital tool usage, knowledge transfer, and adoption behavior. Regression and mediation analyses indicated that digital tool usage significantly enhances knowledge transfer (β = 0.61, p < 0.001), which partially mediates the relationship with adoption of practices (indirect effect = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.22–0.38). Education was found to strengthen the effect of digital tools on knowledge transfer, while age had no significant moderating effect. These findings suggest that integrating digital tools into agricultural extension programs can improve farmers’ engagement and adoption of recommended practices. Policy implications include promoting digital literacy, developing localized content, and complementing digital initiatives with traditional extension services.

Published
2025-09-21