Development of a Model Farmer for Seed Production under the Rice and Economic Crops Research Center in Vientiane Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

This study aims to: 1) examine the level of participation among model farmers in rice seed production; 2) analyze the key factors contributing to the development of model farmers under the Rice and Economic Crop Research Center in Vientiane Capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic; and 3) propose practical approaches for enhancing the development of these farmers. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The quantitative sample comprised 120 model farmers with at least two years of experience in rice seed production. Data were collected via questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and multiple regression analysis. For the qualitative component, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 key informants, including 10 outstanding model farmers, 5 center officials directly involved in the project, and 5 relevant stakeholders such as community leaders and local officers. Data were collected through various methods including field visits, observation, and focus group discussions.

The findings reveal that model farmers exhibited a high level of participation in all dimensions of the rice seed production process, particularly in production evaluation and field management planning. This reflects a strong sense of awareness and responsibility among farmers. Internal factors such as the farmers' skills, knowledge, and the center’s management, along with external factors such as demonstration plots and training programs, were found to significantly contribute to farmer development. These factors were rated at the highest level of influence. The proposed development guidelines include improvements in irrigation infrastructure, enhancement of knowledge in seed production, group management, market development, and promoting model farmers as learning leaders. Emphasis is placed on integrated development and participatory engagement from the public, private, and community sectors to establish a sustainable and high-quality rice seed production system.