Influência dos serviços de extensão agrícola no melhoramento da renda e na qualidade de vida: o caso dos pequenos produtores das Vilas de milénio

Abstract

This research assessed the influence of agricultural extension services on improving the income and quality of life of small producers in the villages of Milênio. To achieve the objective set, the study was based on a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative), with questionnaire survey, interviews as the main instruments and techniques used for data collection. The results showed that the profile of small producers is characterized by low education, advanced age of producers and a predominance of women. Regarding agricultural activity, this is based on the production of food crops, with low mechanization, limited use of modern inputs and strong dependence on climate conditions. Production, although diversified, is predominantly aimed at family consumption. The description of agricultural extension services revealed a set of structured actions that include: personalized technical assistance, practical training on good agricultural practices and sustainability, and distribution of inputs. The results also showed that extension services have generated a significant impact on increasing financial income and consequently on a slight improvement in the quality of life of small producers in Vilas de Milénio.