A importancia do programa agente rural e seus impactos sobre nível tecnológico, geração de emprego, renda e qualidades de vida das famílias assistidas do Estado do Ceará

Abstract

The State Government of Ceará created, in 2003, the Rural Agent Program (RAP). The aim of this study is to analyze the contribution of the program on technological level, employment and income generation and improving living conditions of assisted producers and to measure the level of satisfaction of producers receiving extension services provided by rural agents. The data used were obtained through the applicantion of questionnaires in the counties of Baturité, Iguatú and Quixadá. 90 questionnaires were applied, 45 to assisted producers and 45 to non-assisted producers, randomly selected. t-Student and H of Kruskall-Wallis tests were realized for the comparison of mean values and ratio, respectively with the finality to measure the impact of program on assisted producers in Ceará State. Comparing the producers groups, it is verified that the assisted producers through RAP presented great technology level in relation to non assisted producers. The RAP presented positive impact in employment and income. In general, the quality of life index of assisted producers is superior in relation to non-assisted. The evaluation of producers in relation to the quality service provided by rural agents is satisfactory. It may be concluded that inspite of the number of extension workers in the counties is small to attend the existing demand, the program has benefited the assisted families.