Awareness, Attitudes, and Challenges of Agricultural Extension Workers Toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract

This study explored the awareness, attitudes, and challenges faced by agricultural extension workers (AEWs) in Bulacan, Philippines, regarding the integration of selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their work. The primary focus was to assess AEWs' understanding and engagement with SDGs 1, 2, 13, and 15 explicitly and to develop an action plan aimed at enhancing their capacity to promote sustainable agriculture. Data were gathered from 95 AEWs in Districts 2 and 3 using a structured survey questionnaire. The socio-demographic profile of the respondents revealed a relatively balanced sex distribution, with a slight male majority (54.7%) compared to females (45.3%). The largest age group was 20–30 years old (30.5%), while the smallest group was aged 61 and above (5.3%), suggesting a young and adaptable workforce with limited senior representation. All respondents were college graduates, with 9.5% holding master’s degrees. Most held regular positions (67.4%), indicating workforce stability, while the most common length of service was 1–5 years (34.7%). Rice production was the leading area of specialization (29.5%), whereas organic agriculture, fishery, and soil science were among the least represented fields (each below 5%). In terms of training, AEWs most frequently attended programs related to SDG 1 (No Poverty) at 33.7%, and least frequently to SDG 15 (Life on Land) at 16.8%, indicating uneven exposure across sustainability goals. The findings revealed that AEWs generally demonstrated solid awareness of the SDGs, with particularly strong knowledge of climate-resilient practices. Positive attitudes toward SDG implementation were evident, with respondents expressing a high willingness to apply SDG principles in their work. However, key challenges such as insufficient funding, low farmer awareness, and limited training opportunities were identified.