Increasing Farmers’ Social Responsibility for Sustainable Use of Water: Examining the Role of Communication-Educational Networks

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

2 PostDoc of Agricultural Education and Lecturer at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.

Abstract

As agricultural water resources shrink and global food security faces increasing threats, enhancing farmers’ social responsibility has emerged as a critical strategy for sustainable water management. Recognizing the pivotal role of communication and educational networks in shaping this responsibility, the United Nations emphasizes their potential to drive meaningful change. However, little is known about how these networks influence the four dimensions of farmers’ social responsibility—economic, ethical, philanthropic, and legal. This study addresses this gap by examining the effects of diverse communication and educational networks on sustainable water use by farmers in the Bilevar Plain, Kermanshah Province. From a population of 3,500 farmers, 300 participants were selected using Cochran’s formula and the proportional stratified sampling method from the Razavar and Mian Darband districts. A researcher-designed questionnaire, validated by experts and achieving a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.78 or higher, served as the primary data collection tool. Analysis using ordered logistic regression in Stata/MP17.0 revealed significant disparities in how different educational approaches impacted social responsibility. Open education was the most effective approach, bolstering economic, ethical, and philanthropic responsibilities. In contrast, extension education showed limited success, marginally improving legal responsibility while negatively affecting other dimensions. These findings highlight the urgent need to design targeted and context-sensitive educational programs that enhance farmers’ multidimensional social responsibility. By addressing gaps in communication and educational strategies, this research offers actionable insights for advancing sustainable water management and fostering resilience in agricultural communities.

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Iranian Journal of Agricultural Economics and Development Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 08 June 2025

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