FARMERS' PERCEPTIONS AND THE IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION ON RICE PRODUCTIVITY IN CIPARAY SUB-DISTRICT, BANDUNG DISTRICT

Agricultural extension workers are agents of change who are expected to be able to assist farmers in the transfer of technology and knowledge, so that farmers can carry out their farming activities better. This study investigates rice farmers' perceptions of the performance of agricultural extension workers and the impact of extension services on rice productivity in Ciparay District, Bandung Regency. This study used a quantitative design. Data were collected using questionnaires distributed to 80 rice farmers in Ciparay District, Bandung Regency. The sample consisted of 40 farmers who were active in the extension program and 40 farmers who were not active in the extension program. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) analysis. The results showed that farmers' perceptions of agricultural extension performance were categorized as moderate in terms of responsiveness, responsibility, accountability and service quality. The agricultural extension program provided has a positive impact on increasing rice productivity in Ciparay District. However, rice productivity must be maintained and even increased by paying attention to supporting aspects of extension activities, such as the number of extension workers, facilities and supporting infrastructure. This study recommends that the government pay more attention to the balance of the ratio of extension workers to farmers. Extension workers should upgrade their capacity to improve performance, while extension programs to be more effective should be carried out routinely and continuously according to the needs of farmers.