Analysis of Agricultural Extension and Education Organizational Network in Kerman Province: Social Network Analysis

This study was conducted to analysis of agricultural extension and education organizational network in order to establish pluralistic extension system in Kerman Province. Using direct observation and unstructured interviews with experts and key informants (n:163) specialized in agricultural extension and education, 51 active governmental, private, non-profit and profit organizations in extension and education sector of Kerman province were recognized. Social Network Analysis was accomplished to identify connections and interactions between these organizations in four types of information sharing, cooperation, coordination and partnership networks. The results showed that knowledge sharing and cooperation networks had good condition between different organizations. But, there was an unsuitable situation in terms of coordination and partnership of organizational networks which led to the weak social cohesion. Findings revealed that Jihad Agricultural Organization, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Organization of Rural Cooperative, Department of Natural Resources and Watershed Management, Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, University Education Centers, Government House and Agricultural and Natural Resources Engineers of Basij Organization, were the most strong and effective organizations. On the other hand, NGO’s which have the most connections and interactions with the target population of the province were located in lower level due to the authority, dominance and the ability of control of the networks. So, they were marginalized in current pluralistic system of agricultural extension and education.