Statement of Research

Country of Study: Kenya

University: Egerton University

Department: Agricultural Education and Extension

Student Position: Graduate Research Assistant - M.Sc.

Hometown: Lilongwe, Malawi

Home Institution: Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development

Home Position: Agricultural Extension Methodology Officer

Mentored By:

Home: Paul Fatch, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources

University: Justus Ombati, Egerton University

2015 BHEARD Scholar

Alfred Tsitsi

BHEARD PROGRAM START DATE: August 2015

UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: B.Sc., Agriculture, University of Malawi

RESEARCH INTERESTS: Alfred’s research interest is Rural Youth in Agriculture.

Literature suggests that rural youth are the future of food security. Yet around the world, few young people see a future for themselves in agriculture or rural areas. In particular, The Malawi Growth and Development Strategy paper points out that one of the key limitations to the attainment of improved agricultural productivity and food and nutrition security in the country, is inadequate involvement and consideration of youth in the agricultural sector.

Insights from this study, which is focusing on “Selected Factors Influencing Participation of Rural Youth in Agriculture in Balaka District, Malawi,” will ensure empirical understanding of various issues affecting rural youth in trying to earn their livelihoods in agriculture. The study’s conclusions and recommendations can be used to inform policy which may ensure development of innovative youth-responsive extension approaches and agricultural programs for enhanced rural youth involvement in agriculture. This in turn improves productivity and results in better rural incomes.

Alfred is interested in this study mainly because in many developing countries including Malawi, young people face challenges in trying to earn a livelihood, yet agriculture offers a lot of opportunities. Understanding the factors influencing rural youth’s involvement in agriculture may therefore provide the needed insights for policy makers to develop relevant strategies for enhancing rural youth’s participation in agriculture. This in the long run may contribute to agricultural development in Malawi.

Research Area: Agricultural Extension and Rural Development

PERSONAL STATEMENT: Alfred believes everyone has a purpose in life and his is: “To contribute to poverty reduction by engaging the rural communities with my extension and rural development knowledge, experience and skills; for sustainable agricultural productivity”.

Successful completion of his M.Sc. program will necessitate his ability to influence the develop- ment of extension policies, strategies, programs and concepts tailored to the settings of rural Mala- wian people. Alfred also plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Rural Development and Sociology which will strongly put him in a better position to influence policy issues for the attainment of his national development goals.

WHEN I AM NOT WORKING I ENJOY: Alfred strives to be a good leader and decision maker; who is self-motivated and innovative; with high levels of commitment. His work experience has helped him realized he can also live for others who are less privileged than he is. Alfred therefore devel- oped a profound passion that propelled him to pursue a career having direct and positive impact to challenges affecting the development of his country. In his spare time Alfred enjoys travelling, exploring historic sites, and watching series.