The synergy of agricultural extension and farmer group leadership in promoting farmers’ independence in the digital era

¹ Graduate School of IPB University, Dramaga Campus IPB, Bogor, West Java, 16680, Indonesia
² Department of Communication and Community Development Sciences, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Dramaga Campus IPB, Bogor, West Java, 16680, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: farashaliza@apps.ipb.ac.id

Abstract

Enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting farmer independence remain critical challenges to sustainable rural development in Indonesia. Agricultural extension services and farmer group leadership serve as key institutional innovations, empowering farmers to make informed decisions independently and address agricultural challenges. This study examined the influence of agricultural extension support on farmer group leadership and its subsequent effects on farmer independence. Using a quantitative approach complemented by qualitative insights, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 301 farmers in Riau Province, Indonesia, specifically at four locations: Dumai City, Bengkalis, Kuantan Singingi, and Indragiri Hilir Regencies. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was conducted using SmartPLS software to explore the structural relationships between variables. The results indicate that agricultural extension support significantly improves farmer group leadership and independence. Additionally, effective leadership in farmer groups substantially contributes to farmers’ independence and decision- making capacity. These findings highlight the synergistic role of extension support and leadership in driving socioeconomic transformation in the agricultural sector. This study offers policy-relevant insights for promoting sustainable innovation and community empowerment in tropical bioresource management, particularly in the digital era.